Cat

A fascinating exploration of the depiction of house cats in both art and popular culture, this book examines our enduring fascination with these beloved animal companions. Throughout history, cats have captured human imagination, from their portrayal in ancient Egyptian statuettes to their presence in Victorian illustrations. Today, they grace contemporary artwork, walk fashion runways, and star in countless social media memes. "Cat" delves into these varied portrayals, celebrating the multifaceted appearances of feline friends in art and culture worldwide. With over 210 beautiful full-page images, the book pairs artworks in engaging ways, showing everything from maneki-neko lucky charms to historical mosaics and modern couture.Readers will recognize iconic characters like Puss in Boots and the Cheshire Cat, and the works of famous artists such as Andy Warhol, Tracey Emin, Judy Chicago, and Utagawa Hiroshige are also featured. The book incorporates famous figures from various creative realms, including street photographer Jamel Shabazz and fashion designer Thom Browne. Balancing visual appeal with insightful content, the book opens with a foreword by Hannah Shaw, the renowned Kitten Lady, who highlights how images of cats enhance our connection with them. Curator Leila Jarbouai contributes an essay that traces humanity’s shared history with cats through art. The volume is rounded out by a captivating cover, displaying a curled-up black cat, reflecting the irresistible charm of these animals. The advisory panel behind this effort includes Yekaterina Barbash, Claire Catterall, Anja Charbonneau, and others, supported by additional texts from writers like Sara Bader and David Trigg. Together, they help craft a compelling tribute to the timeless appeal of cats.