Théophile Steinlen, "Poor Little Mouse", 1898, antique print from "Cats"
One baby mouse and three cats - Steinlen depicts a quiet, harsh drama of life.
Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen is known as the "painter of cats" who depicted the daily lives of cats with a keen eye for observation in late 19th century Paris. This work, "The Poor Little Mouse (La Pauvre petite Souris!)", is one of the silent cartoons included in the collection of illustrations "Des Chats (Cats)" published in 1898.
The three cats are curious about the mouse caught in the trap. As they play, full of curiosity, the door opens and one small mouse escapes. However, it is soon caught and becomes the cats' playmate.
The cats' movements become increasingly violent. Are they playing or hunting? The way the mouse is toyed with is depicted with a mixture of quiet humor and cruelty. In the final panel, the mouse is held down by the cat's claws, and this is the most powerful silence in this wordless manga.
This is a memorable work in which the animals are depicted realistically, not as anthropomorphised but as "cats", exuding the sharpness and gentleness of Steinlen's gaze.
Information
Artist: Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen
Title: The Poor Little Mouse (La Pauvre petite Souris!)
Year of production: 1898
Condition: Antique print, 1 piece
Size: Approx. 39 x 29 cm
Artist / Title: Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen / La Pauvre petite Souris! (Antique Print, 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 Ribo Antiques' special page (separate site).
Black Cat and Steinlan (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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