I knew Tom regularly went gaga over a bewhiskered female in the MGM shorts (the name Tom Cat wasn't chosen by accident), but I never before realized it was the same sex kitten each time or that she had a distinct identity. Further research has clued me in. Here she is in situ:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DmB6B-iSqfM ... "Springtime For Thomas", a cartoon which does a nice job delineating her function as a character, while simultaneously defining T & J's relationship with hilariously vicious vividness. Note: while only the first third, it's more than enough to be illustrative.
That established, appreciation for this fine work of tickling mayhem becomes far more rewarding! The T&J likenesses are wonderfully realized, spiffy recreations of seminal the Hanna/Barbera characters! While the poses are a bit exotic, they still could easily function as animation model sheets! Ms. Toodles herself may not have the smooth cheeks seen in the cartoons (though the increased similarity to Tom does increase their simpatico) and from the ankles down she's more human than feline, but she's still admirably recognizable for such a peripheral character! The sheer novelty of the setup... Tom as a stage magician, using Toodles as a subject of the Sawing-in-Half trick while assistant Jerry can't resist playing his part too soon... nicely defies expectations; such scenarios are a common, clichéd subject for tickling art, but only after the separation has taken place. Here, we have an entirely new perspective, one which reaps fine benefits by allowing the lee a far freer opportunity for physical expression! I like the POV very much: an elevated view which shows all participants to good effect, as well as providing a shadowy indication of the spectators. Audiences really do appear this intimidating when you're onstage, and it lends the scenario drama and immediacy! Hope these Oscar-winning personalities make further appearances in your artwork! Them or their kindred from Warner Brothers, Max Fleischer or Walter Lantz! You're far too good at this to let the possibility slip!
Thanks for sharing it here. 
