“White Cat I,” created by M.C. Escher in 1919, belongs to the Expressionism art movement and falls under the genre of animal painting. The artist skillfully employs a minimalist approach to depict a serene white cat, primarily using shades of black and white.
The artwork features a cat rendered in simplified, clean lines and stark contrasts. The feline’s body is mostly an expanse of white, with its edges and details subtly delineated in black. The cat appears calm and composed, with a closed-eye demeanor that evokes tranquility. The background is almost entirely black, drawing the viewer’s eye toward the central subject. The use of negative space is notable, enhancing the cat’s form and creating a striking visual effect. The overall composition exudes a sense of quiet elegance and a celebration of feline grace.