“The Cat in the Mirror” is an oil on canvas painting, created circa 1988 by the artist Balthus. This artwork, measuring 170 cm by 200 cm, is a notable piece within the Expressionism art movement. Classified as genre painting, it is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a young girl seated on a bed, gazing intently at herself in a handheld mirror. Her attire is casual yet distinctive; she wears a pink long-sleeved top, black pants, and a light blue garment tied around her waist. Notably, her feet are bare, and her expression appears contemplative. Positioned to her side is a small cat, whose eyes are fixed on her, adding a whimsical touch to the scene. The backdrop is simple, allowing the interaction between the girl and the cat to occupy the focal point of the composition. The bed and surrounding fabrics are rendered in muted tones, further emphasizing the quiet, introspective mood evoked by the artwork.