A Siamese Cat Stalking A Butterfly Amongst Bluebells by Charles Frederick Tunnicliffe (Interpretation and Analysis)

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A Siamese Cat Stalking A Butterfly Amongst Bluebells
Source: Artnet
I’m told that today is National Cat DNA Day. I’m not quite sure why that needs to be a “national day,” but there seems to be a national day for everything these days, so why not? Apparently, September 19 was selected as National Cat DNA day because cats have 19 pairs of chromosomes and, of course, they have nine lives. So, in honor of National Cat DNA Day, I want to share a rather sweet drawing of a cat with you.

A Siamese Cat Stalking A Butterfly Amongst Bluebells is one of many drawings and paintings of cats produced by English artist Charles Frederick Tunnicliffe. Few would identify Tunnicliffe as one of the major artists of the twentieth century, but he had an almost unparalleled talent for depicting animals (especially birds) in their natural habitats.

Although he is famous for his birds, Tunnicliffe clearly had great affection for cats, and he produced many drawings and paintings of them engaged in everyday activities outdoors in their “natural” habitats. Like many artists, Tunnicliffe was obviously drawn to the natural grace and elegance of cats. He seemed to particularly like Siamese cats, which have unique coloring that makes them especially beautiful and visually appealing.

In A Siamese Cat Stalking A Butterfly Amongst Bluebells, we see a sleek Siamese cat deftly picking its way through a riot of flowers. Though Tunnicliffe was known for his highly finished style, this drawing (which was intended to be somewhat casual) is characterized by loose and painterly brushstrokes. This gives the drawing a sense of energy and spontaneity that engages the viewer’s eye. I’m sure all cat owners can happily imagine their own cats frolicking in such a field, even if they have indoor cats.

Happy National Cat DNA Day!

Disclaimer: I’m not an art historian or an expert on this topic. The above is my opinion, based on my interpretation of my foreknowledge of art and history. If I’ve done any additional research, I’ll note it above.

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