Artwork
Studies of the head of a kitten
Studies of the head of a kitten is a watercolor work on paper by the Naïve art artist Beatrix Potter. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Studies of the head of a kitten is a watercolour work by Beatrix Potter, showcasing her observational drawings of animals from life.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a kitten's head, reflects Potter's lifelong interest in natural history and her practice of sketching pets kept in her care.
Technique & Style
Executed in watercolour, these lively studies demonstrate Potter's ability to capture quick, observational sketches of living subjects.
History & Provenance
Originally part of a larger sheet (paired with BP.1017(i)), this work was later cut in half. Its creation date aligns with Potter's period of intense natural history study and children's book illustration (circa early 20th century).
Context
Created during a time when Potter was both developing her natural history skills and producing her famous children's books (notably The Tale of Peter Rabbit, 1902), this work sits at the intersection of her scientific and artistic pursuits.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Helen Beatrix Heelis (née Potter; 28 July 1866 – 22 December 1943), usually known as Beatrix Potter ( BEE-ə-triks), was an English writer, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist.
