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Popular proverb
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Popular proverb
When the cats away the mice will play. Art Deco style image of children at play illustrating that when a person in authority is away, those under the persons rule will enjoy their freedom. Artist: Gladys Peto Date: circa 1925
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23213584
© Mary Evans/Peter & Dawn Cope Collection
Authority Away Cats Illustrating Mice Proverb When 1925 Deco
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When the Cats Away, the Mice Will Play
EDITORS COMMENTS
: An Exuberant Art Deco Expression of Human Nature This Art Deco print, created by the talented British artist Gladys Peto around 1925, brings to life the popular proverb, "When the cats are away, the mice will play." The image, brimming with energy and mischief, illustrates the human tendency to seize opportunities for freedom and enjoyment when authority figures are absent. The scene unfolds in a richly textured, geometric setting reminiscent of the Art Deco style. Children, dressed in fashionable clothes of the era, frolic and play with abandon. Their joyous expressions and carefree actions convey the exhilaration of breaking free from the constraints of adult supervision. The cats, symbolizing authority and order, are nowhere to be seen, allowing the mice – or, in this case, the children – to revel in their momentary independence. Gladys Peto masterfully captures the essence of this proverb, which has been passed down through generations. The print serves as a visual reminder that when those in power are absent, those beneath them may choose to embrace their freedom and indulge in the simple pleasures of life. The playful, whimsical nature of the artwork invites viewers to reflect on the human condition and the universal desire for autonomy and self-expression. This piece, with its intricate details and vibrant colors, is a testament to Gladys Peto's artistic prowess and her ability to encapsulate the spirit of a beloved proverb in a visually stunning way. The "When the Cats Away, the Mice Will Play" print continues to captivate and inspire audiences, offering a delightful glimpse into the past and the enduring nature of human nature.
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