Cat Silhouette in Moonlight
Painting on paper • Contemporary amateur artist (signed 'Steph' vertically on the left)
Style & Movement
Contemporary Decorative / Folk Art / Paint-and-Sip style
Medium & Technique
Acrylic on heavy paper or cardstock. Techniques include wet-on-wet blending for the circular background gradient and flat silhouette application for the foreground.
Creation Period
Early 21st Century (circa 2010-2024)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches; portrait orientation
Subject Description
A black silhouette of a cat sitting on a tree branch, positioned against a large, glowing full moon. The background features concentric circles of blue and white, creating a halo effect. The cat's tail and ears are stylized, and the tree branches contain simplified leaf shapes.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent. The colors are vibrant and there is no visible damage, though slight curling of the paper substrate is visible at the edges.
Estimated Market Value
$20 - $75
Auction Estimate
$10 - $50
Provenance History
Likely created in a private studio or community art class setting; currently in a private collection.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the popular decorative art movement of the 2010s characterized by high-contrast silhouettes and simplified nocturnal themes, often associated with social painting events or hobbyist exploration.
Notable Features
Distinctive vertical signature 'Steph' on the left side; visible brushstrokes in the blue sky create a sense of movement; high-contrast use of black against a bright white central moon.
Condition Issues
Minor edge curling and uneven paint application at the borders where the tape was likely removed.
Conservation Recommendations
Mounting using acid-free materials and framing under UV-protective glass to prevent fading of the blue pigments and paper yellowing.