Cats and Art History

1. Saint Paul’s Hospital Garden (“Falling eaves”), Vincent van Gogh, 1889

Ancient Egypt: Cats held a special place in ancient Egyptian culture and mythology. They were highly revered and considered sacred animals.

2. Saint Paul’s Hospital Garden (“Falling eaves”), Vincent van Gogh, 1889

Medieval and Renaissance Art: Cats were often depicted in religious artworks during the medieval and Renaissance periods.

1. Saint Paul’s Hospital Garden (“Falling eaves”), Vincent van Gogh, 1889

Japanese Ukiyo-e Prints: Cats were a popular subject in Japanese Ukiyo-e prints during the Edo period (17th to 19th centuries).

1. Saint Paul’s Hospital Garden (“Falling eaves”), Vincent van Gogh, 1889

Modern and Contemporary Art: Cats have continued to inspire artists in more recent times. Famous artists like Henriette Ronner-Knip, Théophile Steinlen, and Balthus have created notable cat-themed artworks.