Study for the cat Camille Pissarro (1830-1903)

The drawing presents two figures engaged in what appears to be a tense interaction. Here we observe one woman facing directly forward, her gaze directed outward, while the other stands in profile, arms crossed across her chest. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the height and posture of the individuals.
The rendering style suggests a preparatory study; lines are loose and expressive, capturing gesture rather than precise detail. Hatching and cross-hatching create tonal variation, defining form and suggesting volume. The limited palette – a monochrome scheme – focuses attention on the figures’ body language and spatial relationship.
The woman facing forward is adorned with a large, structured hat that dominates her head. Her dress appears simple and functional, typical of working-class attire. In contrast, the figure in profile seems more reserved, her posture conveying a sense of defensiveness or perhaps quiet contemplation. The crossed arms reinforce this impression, creating a barrier between her and the other woman.
The background is minimal, consisting primarily of lightly sketched horizontal lines that might represent a ground plane or a distant horizon. This sparseness directs the viewer’s focus entirely onto the interaction between the two women.
Subtleties in posture suggest an underlying narrative. The direct gaze of the first woman could be interpreted as confrontational or inquisitive, while the profile stance and crossed arms of the second imply resistance or withdrawal. It is possible that the drawing explores themes of social dynamics, power imbalances, or interpersonal conflict within a rural setting. The absence of overt emotional expression allows for multiple interpretations; the viewer is invited to speculate on the nature of their relationship and the circumstances surrounding their encounter.