The artwork titled “The Paris Review” was created by artist Saul Steinberg in the year 1967. Steinberg’s work is often associated with the art movement Expressionism, despite his diverse and exploratory style. This particular piece of Steinberg’s portfolio falls within the genre of animal painting, exhibiting a stylistic interpretation rather than a literal one.
Examining the artwork, one observes the representation of a cat portrayed through abstract shapes and minimalistic design. The feline subject is composed of simple color patches, primarily in shades of brown and black, with distinctive, expressive markings that suggest the animal’s natural patterns. Notably, the cat’s face is rendered with a rather anthropomorphic touch, possessing human-like eyes that provide a sense of contemplation or inquisitiveness. The eyes are accentuated by blue, which contrasts with the otherwise subdued color palette of the artwork. Additionally, text that reads “The Paris Review?” is incorporated directly onto the figure, which might imply a connection or commentary related to the well-known literary magazine. Steinberg’s signature appears in the lower right corner, modestly integrated into the composition.
The abstract representation, along with the curious placement of a querying statement, invites viewers to ponder the interplay between visual arts and literature, as well as the boundaries between the human and animal world as perceived through the artist’s eyes.
