Théophile Steinlen, "Cats" cover illustration (1898)
The cover of this book is filled with the warmth of the cats that Steinlen loved.
Steinlen's representative collection of illustrations, "Des Chats", was published in 1898. The cover depicts a heartwarming scene of a girl in a red checked outfit feeding milk to cats. The sight of the various cats - black, calico, tabby - gazing intently at the bowl of milk is full of humor and affection.
This composition is reminiscent of the poster for "Milk of Vingennes" created around the same time, and we can see the repeated theme of "girl and cat" that Steinlen painted. In particular, the statue of a girl, said to have been modeled after his daughter Colette, was an important motif closely connected to the artist's private life.
Although it is just a cover, the composition and colors make it seem like a finished poster. It is a poetic and intimate scene that is fitting for the introduction to this collection of art that Steinlen has written as "Dessins sans paroles (Stories without words)."
Information
Artist: Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen
Title: Cover of "Des Chats"
Year of production: 1898
Technique: Lithograph printing
Size: Approx. 45 x 31 cm
Artist / Title: Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen / Des Chats (Cover illustration, 1898)
*The frame in the image is for reference only. Please contact us regarding framing.
Related links
If you would like to know more about the works, please visit Rivoli Antiques' special page (separate site).
Black Cat and Steinlan (another site)
Masters of Posters (another site)
The first art book in Japan to feature Steinlen's cats, "Steinlen, the Black Cat Cartoonist," is also on sale now!
Black cat cartoonist Stanlan
Framing options
This work is normally offered unframed, but upon request, we are happy to offer custom framing options at our gallery.
The content is focused on UV-blocking acrylic and artistic harmony. For details and prices, please click here.
▶ [Framing plan information (PDF)]
When ordering, please write "I would like it framed" or feel free to contact us.
Framing options
This work is usually provided unframed so that you can enjoy the original charm of the work as it is, taking into consideration the preservation of the paper and its use as a collection.
If desired, we offer a custom framing plan (additional charge) in which we will select and suggest a frame for you. We can frame your work with consideration for artistic balance, the color of the work, and harmony with your interior decor.
- Various frames available, including wooden frames and gold leaf decorated frames
- Uses UV-blocking acrylic (emphasis on preservation)
- Proposals based on your desired size and installation environment
When ordering, please indicate "framed" or contact us separately. We will help you find the perfect framing to bring out the best in your artwork.
The content is focused on UV-blocking acrylic and artistic harmony. For details and prices, please click here.
▶ [Framing Plan Information (PDF)]
About the condition
This work is an original antique print created over 100 years ago.
All works sold by Rivoli Antiques are genuine pieces of artistic value printed at the time, and are not later reproductions or copies.
Due to their nature, antique prints rarely come with individual certificates of authenticity like contemporary works.
Therefore, where you buy and who is in charge of selecting the works are of utmost importance.
At Rivoli Antiques, we carefully select our items based on the trust we have built through many years of collaboration with museums and experts.
We only introduce works that you can safely add to your collection.
Natural fading and stains may appear over time, but these are also proof of the era the piece has passed through and are elements that convey the texture of the materials and techniques used to create it.
You can also come and see the paintings in person at the gallery to check their condition, so please feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
About the store and reliability
At Rivoli Antiques, we have a track record of lending works to the Tokyo National Museum and the British Museum, and we present works according to museum-level selection criteria.
We have established a system that allows you to purchase and collect with peace of mind.
Please feel free to contact us for collection creation or consultation.
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