The Cats' Rendezvous

The Cats' Rendezvous by Édouard Manet French, 1832-1883, is a remarkable work of 19th-century graphic arts, executed in 1868. This piece takes the form of a lithograph rendered in black ink on ivory wove paper, which was subsequently laid down on ivory cloth. Manet dedicated considerable attention to printmaking throughout his career, often utilizing the medium of lithography to achieve painterly effects and circulate his distinct vision of modern life widely across France.

Although renowned for his controversial oil paintings, Manet demonstrated mastery over the demanding technical aspects of print production. This lithograph showcases the artist's ability to manipulate the greasy crayon and stone surface to create subtle, atmospheric variations in tone and texture. Unlike traditional engraving, lithography allowed Manet to utilize the full range of shades, from deep, velvety blacks to delicate gray washes, effectively translating his expressive, sketch-like sensibility into the realm of prints.

Reflecting the culture of mid-century France, where the printing market boomed, Manet’s graphic works often touched upon themes of Parisian street life or utilized symbolic animal imagery. As a contemporary piece from a pivotal period in the artist's development, The Cats' Rendezvous is a significant object documenting his engagement with evolving artistic technologies. This important impression is housed within the prestigious permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, contributing to the museum's comprehensive holdings of nineteenth-century French modernism. While the original physical work remains protected in the museum, the enduring appeal of Manet’s graphic creations ensures that high-quality reproductions and related prints are widely available for public domain study.