The Large Cat
The Large Cat

Currently not on view

The Large Cat,

1657

Cornelis Visscher, Dutch, ca. 1629–1658
Published by Claes Jansz. Visscher, 1587–1652; born and died Amsterdam, Netherlands
x1959-61
Renowned for his close observations of nature, Visscher engraved one of the most famous portrayals of the cat in Western art. The large tabby appears to be sunning itself, but its protracted front paws and alert ears may indicate that it is lying in wait for prey. The mouse, attempting to creep around the cat, seems paralyzed by the ambiguous posture of his enemy: is the cat lazing indulgently or covertly crouching for attack? While the interpretation remains open, Visscher perhaps refers to a biblical verse stating that idle souls suffer hunger.

Information

Title
The Large Cat
Dates

1657

Maker
Cornelis Visscher
Published by Claes Jansz. Visscher
Medium
Engraving
Dimensions
plate: 14.4 x 18.9 cm. (5 11/16 x 7 7/16 in.) sheet: 15.6 x 19.8 cm. (6 1/8 x 7 13/16 in.)
Credit Line
Bequest of Gilbert S. McClintock, Class of 1908
Object Number
x1959-61
Place Made

Europe, Netherlands, Amsterdam

Inscription
Signed in plate on stone, lower left corner: Corn. Visscher / fecit Inscribed in plate below image, center: CJVisscher Excudit.
Reference Numbers
Hollstein 42
Culture
European, Dutch
Type
prints, engravings
Materials
printing ink
Techniques
engraving (printing process)
Subject
mice, cats

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The Museum regularly researches its objects and their collecting histories, updating its records to reflect new information. We also strive to catalogue works of art using language that is consistent with how people, subjects, artists, and cultures describe themselves. As this effort is ongoing, the Museum’s records may be incomplete or contain terms that are no longer acceptable. We welcome your feedback, questions, and additional information that you feel may be useful to us. Email us at collectionsinfo@princeton.edu.

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