The Poet Opened His Little Book by Candlelight and Began to Read
Large ears, almond-shaped eyes, and a warm reddish-brown coat with fine ticked markings make this Abyssinian look like an elegant poet lost in thought. He wears a black velvet cap trimmed with leaves, a ruffled lace collar, and a deep green coat with a black cloak, and he holds a small leather book against his chest. A candle burns brightly at his left, and its glow warms the side of his face and the pages in his paw. He seems ready to read aloud, if only the room would be quiet.
The painter used the candle as a clever spotlight, so the ruddy fur and the lace collar are brightest and the rest of the figure dissolves into shadow. This kind of single-source light was a hallmark of Dutch interiors.
Abyssinians are lean, athletic cats known for their curiosity and energy. They tend to be playful, highly social, and happiest when they have things to climb, explore, and investigate. Their short, ticked coat is easy to groom, and they usually need lots of interactive play to stay content. A bored Abyssinian can invent mischief, so puzzle toys and tall cat trees are a good idea. Candles and open flames should always be kept away from pets, and your vet can advise on enrichment and diet.
The poem is probably about sunbeams, high shelves, and the great mystery of the closed cupboard.
