Suspense

Suspense (1894) by Charles Burton Barber portrays a young girl sitting up in bed, saying grace over a tray of food, while her two pets—a dog and a cat—watch eagerly. The dog sits on the bed, staring intently at the meal, while the cat perches nearby, both animals showing clear anticipation. Barber's careful attention to detail and the affectionate relationship between the girl and her pets exemplifies his ability to capture tender, sentimental moments. The painting reflects the artist's signature focus on the bond between children and animals.