Artwork
A cat drinking from a cup and saucer
A cat drinking from a cup and saucer is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Beatrix Potter. It dates from 1894 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This watercolour depicts a cat drinking from a cup and saucer, created by Beatrix Potter in the 1890s. It is an example of her early illustrative work, predating her famous children's stories.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing shows a cat at a table, lifting its head from a cup and saucer, engaging in a human-like activity. This anthropomorphic representation is characteristic of Potter's style, which would later become a hallmark of her children's stories.
History & Provenance
Potter offered the drawing to publisher Ernest Nister many years before she gained widespread recognition. Although it was not published at the time, she later referenced it in a 1926 letter to her publisher, Frederick Warne.
Context
This watercolour is one of many imaginary drawings Potter created in the 1890s, some of which were later reproduced in various publications. It is now part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.
Artist & collection
Artist
Helen Beatrix Heelis (née Potter; 28 July 1866 – 22 December 1943), usually known as Beatrix Potter ( BEE-ə-triks), was an English writer, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist.
A kitten sleeping; head of a kitten
Studies of the head of a kitten
Studies of a cat
Kitten carrying game; illustration to 'The White Cat'
Kittens with game collected for the White Cat's supper
The fox pouring tea
A cat playing with a fish, and other drawings of cats
Study for the frontispiece of Kitty-in-Boots
Rear view of the White Rabbit running away along the corridor
The White Rabbit running along a long panelled corridor
Side view of a dog, 'Kep'