dbs 304 Susan Herbert 07 Susan Herbert

The composition presents a curious juxtaposition of feline and classical iconography. A central figure, clearly a cat, is rendered in the attire of Roman authority – a toga with red trim – and holds what appears to be a ceremonial staff or scepter. The animals expression conveys an air of solemnity, bordering on imperiousness, as it gazes directly outward.
Surrounding this regal feline are several other cats, depicted in various poses suggesting deference and adoration. They cluster at the base of a classical column that serves as a backdrop for the central figure, reinforcing the sense of established power and hierarchy. The positioning of these subordinate cats creates a visual pyramid, with the authoritative cat at its apex.
To the right, an angelic figure is visible, rendered in a pale, almost ghostly white. This being holds a trumpet aloft, seemingly announcing or celebrating the presence of the feline ruler. The angel’s inclusion introduces a layer of religious or mythological significance to the scene, elevating the status of the cat beyond mere animal representation.
The color palette is restrained, dominated by whites, creams, and muted blues, with accents of red in the togas trim. This limited range contributes to the painting’s formal quality and reinforces its allegorical nature. The artist employs a smooth rendering style, minimizing textural detail and emphasizing clean lines, which further enhances the sense of stylized formality.
Subtextually, the work seems to explore themes of power, authority, and perhaps even satire. The combination of feline characteristics with Roman imperial imagery creates an incongruous effect that invites humorous interpretation while simultaneously questioning conventional notions of leadership and divine sanction. It is possible to read this as a commentary on human ambition or a playful reimagining of historical narratives through the lens of animal behavior. The angel’s presence suggests a blessing or legitimization of this unusual power structure, adding another layer of complexity to the works meaning.