Mammals
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
This print is in very good condition, with minor age-related toning and slight foxing primarily along the margins. The fine details of the cats' fur and expressive postures remain crisp and well-defined.
19th-Century Lithograph of Domestic Cats in Playful and Nurturing Scenes
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This charming 19th-century lithograph presents a delightful study of the domestic cat (Felis catus), labeled "De Huiskat." Originally published in *De Zoogdieren: afgebeeld en in hunne levenswijze geschetst*, this print captures the playful, affectionate, and maternal behaviors of household cats in three distinct vignettes.
At the top, two cats are engaged in a playful or possibly defensive interaction, illustrating natural feline behaviors such as mock fighting and territorial assertion. The middle scene portrays a mother cat nursing and grooming her kittens, emphasizing the nurturing instincts of felines. The lower illustration captures a lighthearted moment of young kittens playing with a ball of yarn while an alert adult cat watches over them. These finely detailed studies reflect early zoological observations of domestic animal behavior.
Domestic cats have lived alongside humans for thousands of years, initially revered in ancient Egypt and later spreading throughout Europe and Asia as companions and pest controllers. The detailed rendering of their fur, postures, and expressions in this lithograph showcases the skill of the artist in capturing both scientific accuracy and the charm of these beloved animals.
Created by C.C. G. Zool. and printed by La Haye & J. L. G. V., this lithograph is an excellent piece for antique print collectors, cat enthusiasts, and those interested in 19th-century natural history illustrations.
Keywords: 19th Century, Lithograph, Domestic Cats, Feline Art, Natural History, Zoology, Felis Catus, Cat Illustration, Scientific Illustration, Antique Print, Animal Engraving, Taxonomy, Netherlands, La Haye, J.L.G.V.
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Condition Summary:
This print is in very good condition, with minor age-related toning and slight foxing primarily along the margins. The fine details of the cats' fur and expressive postures remain crisp and well-defined. The edges show minor irregularities due to historical binding, but there are no significant tears or folds. A highly collectible and well-preserved piece.
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Framing Tips:
For an elegant display, use an acid-free mat in a soft neutral tone such as light beige or cream to complement the delicate shading. A classic wooden frame in warm brown or black will enhance the vintage aesthetic. UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent fading. If displayed with other lithographs of animals, maintaining uniform frames will create a cohesive and refined collection.
