Joseph_Wright_of_Derby._Two_Girls_Dressing_a_Kitten_by_Candlelight._c._1768-70I discovered this painting, Two Girls Dressing a Kitten by Candlelight  by Joseph Wright of Derby (1737-1797) between 1768-1770,  on a blog I adore called Two Nerdy History girls. While the author of the blog, Isabella Bradford, provided a fascinating discussion on the possible meanings of the painting,  I take a more simplistic approach.

Since I am neither an art critic, nor a psychologist, this painting took me down memory lane to my childhood.

As the very much youngest child of my family and living my earliest years  in a neighborhood with few children, I grew up pretty much alone. My saving grace came partially in the form of what seemed like a continuous supply of kittens as my playmates.  No kitten was safe from my affections. I spent hours dressing them up in my doll clothes and pushing them around in my baby carriage.

Though the painting may inspire deeper meanings, I love the idea that dressing kittens in doll clothes is a timeless past time.  Based on the mournful expression in the kitten’s face, not to mention the tail between his legs, the kitten isn’t enjoying the attention the girls are so lovingly lavishing upon it.  Still, I think it’s a sweet picture.

What do you see when you look at this picture?

 

 

Author of Historical Romance and Fantasy, award-winning author Donna Hatch is a sought-after speaker and workshop presenter. Her writing awards include the Golden Rose and the prestigious Golden Quill. Her passion for writing began at age 8 she wrote her first short story, and she wrote her first full-length novel during her sophomore year in high school, a fantasy which was later published. In between caring for six children, (7 counting her husband), her day job, her work as a freelance editor and copywriter, and her many volunteer positions, she still makes time to write. After all, writing IS an obsession. All of her heroes are patterned after her husband of over 20 years, who continues to prove that there really is a happily ever after.

One Thought on “Dressing a Kitten”

  • If I could, I would post a photo I took just last week of my 4 year old dressing up our cat and doing it’s hair…..

    Timeless torture of kittens will endure for as long as we have children!

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