“The Cat in the Mirror,” an oil on canvas artwork created around 1990 by the artist Balthus, stands as a significant piece within the Expressionism movement. Measuring 195 x 220 cm, this genre painting resides in a private collection.
The artwork depicts a young person seated on a bed, holding a mirror up towards a cat that is perched on a stool draped with a cloth. The person is dressed in a tunic with vibrant colors and intricate patterns, and their pose suggests contemplation or curiosity. The bed is adorned with various textiles featuring rich hues and detailed designs that enhance the intimate and domestic atmosphere of the scene. The cat, fixated on the mirror, further adds to the enigmatic and reflective nature of the painting. Through this composition, Balthus infuses a sense of introspection and narrative complexity, characteristic of his expressionistic style.
