Willow Tree and Cat
This scene of magpies perched on a willow branch, with cats playfully frolicking below, evokes the leisurely atmosphere of a summer day. While the adult cats sit calmly, the young ones, with their tails raised, move about actively. The artist captures the cats’ expressions and fur in great detail, while the magpies appear somewhat schematic. The willow trunk is outlined with bold strokes, and short lines and light ink are added to enhance its three-dimensionality and texture. The willow leaves, painted in varying shades of green, seem to sway gently in the wind. The cat and magpie are often depicted together to symbolize wishes for longevity and official success.