The artwork titled “Sleeping Cat” is an oil on canvas painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, dated to the year 1862. As a seminal piece of the Impressionism movement, the genre of this work is classified as animal painting. The work is part of a private collection, not on public display. This piece exemplifies Renoir’s early engagement with subjects taken from everyday life, including domestic animals, before he became more widely known for his lively scenes of Parisian leisure and portraits.
In the artwork, a slumbering cat is depicted with delicate strokes that capture the softness of its fur and the relaxed composure of its form. The cat appears to be at rest, curled up with paws tucked beneath its body and head nestled into its side, evoking a sense of calm and serenity. Renoir’s brushwork is characteristic of the Impressionistic style; rather than precise, meticulous representation, the artist employs a looser approach that suggests texture and movement. The color palette consists of warm tones, predominantly browns and golds, which give the painting an intimate and cozy atmosphere. The interplay of light and shadow is subtle but effectively conveys the contours of the sleeping cat.
