Although this painting is quite whisical in nature, the subject has its basis in reality.  I recall watching something quite similar on may a moonlit night. My wife would hang the clothes at night so they would dry the next day in the breeze of a warm autumn sun.   Our cat  Angel apparently loved the ritual and would never miss a chance to help. Ecologically speaking, the yearly ritual of leaves drying in Autumn provides the insulation that protects all Gods little creatures through the winter snow and cold.