Artwork
The Cat Sent as Messenger
The Cat Sent as Messenger is an ink print by the Baroque artist Allart van Everdingen. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Allart van Everdingen, a Dutch Golden Age artist, created the etching *The Cat Sent as Messenger* circa 1650, exemplifying his etching practice during this period.
Subject & Meaning
The etching portrays a lively group of cats within a dense, dynamic forest, though the specific narrative or symbolism behind the 'messenger' cat remains implicit.
Technique & Style
Characterized by expressive, thick lines and layered textures, the work showcases a popular 17th-century etching technique, capturing the movement and depth of the natural scene, including the cats' fur, foliage, and shadows.
History & Provenance
Created around 1650, the etching is part of Van Everdingen's broader body of etchings featuring cats, with its current location and full ownership history not specified in available details.
Context
The piece reflects the Dutch Golden Age's artistic preferences for detailed, textured prints, aligning with the era's printmaking innovations and aesthetic values.
Legacy
While *The Cat Sent as Messenger* contributes to Van Everdingen's oeuvre, its broader impact or influence on subsequent art movements is not prominently highlighted in the provided context.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Allaert van Everdingen (Dutch pronunciation: ; bapt. 18 June 1621 – 8 November 1675 (buried)), was a Dutch Golden Age painter and printmaker in etching and mezzotint.
