Who painted Study of a young girl and a cat?

Study of a young girl and a cat was painted by Daniel Maclise in 1825.

Where can I see Study of a young girl and a cat?

Study of a young girl and a cat is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Study of a young girl and a cat?

Study of a young girl and a cat is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Study of a young girl and a cat

Daniel Maclise , 1825

Study of a young girl and a cat is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Daniel Maclise. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

This pencil drawing by Daniel Maclise portrays a young girl seated at a garden table, gently interacting with a cat that rests on the tabletop. The composition is rendered with light, sketchy lines, leaving much of the background suggested rather than fully detailed.

Subject & Meaning

The work captures an intimate, everyday moment: the girl, dressed in a loose gown and head covering, reaches toward the cat, which curls beside her hand. The simplicity of the scene emphasizes a quiet domestic affection between child and animal.

Technique & Style

Executed in pencil, the drawing displays a loose, unfinished quality, with soft shading achieved through cross‑hatching and smudging. The artist concentrates detail on the figures, allowing the surrounding tree and foliage to remain loosely suggested with minimal line work.

History & Provenance

The sheet is double‑sided; the reverse bears a pen drawing titled Rock of Cashel. The piece was included in a large exhibition of 390 drawings and sketches in pencil, pen, and ink, featuring works by artists such as T.S. Cooper, Sir Edwin Landseer, and Benjamin Disraeli.

Artist & collection

Artist

Daniel Maclise

Daniel Maclise (25 January 1806 – 25 April 1870) was an Irish history painter, literary and portrait painter, and illustrator, who worked for most of his life in London, England.