Cats Under A Tree

This painting, titled "Cats Under A Tree" by Edward Penfield, features a rather stylized and graphic portrayal of three cats around a simplified, stylized tree. The image exhibits a strong use of flat color areas and bold outlines, characteristics typical of Penfield's illustrative style, which often has a strong Art Nouveau influence.The three cats are depicted with distinctive, perhaps exaggerated, postures and expressions, which may suggest different personalities or states of motion. From left to right, the first cat is arching its back, possibly in a defensive or startled pose. The middle cat faces a green bowl or container, positioned directly under the tree, perhaps inspecting or smelling it. The third cat on the right appears in mid-stride, possibly walking past the scene or approaching the bowl.The color palette is limited yet effective, with black, white, tan, and shades of green, reinforcing the graphic quality of the work. The tree, with its dense, leafy canopy in a vibrant green, serves as a central element that seems to connect the activity or interactions of the cats.Overall, Penfield's work here is a charming study in form, color, and the conveyance of character through body language, rendered in a distinctly modern illustrative style. This composition subtly blends natural themes with a decorative approach, making it visually appealing and expressive.