Art UK has updated its cookies policy. By using this website you are agreeing to the use of cookies. To find out more read our updated Use of Cookies policy and our updated Privacy policy.
The role of cats in the history of art is richer than their modern place in the home would suggest. They were domesticated thousands of years ago, originally as vermin control and then as pets. But their renowned sense of independence and other characteristics have led them to be associated with witches and lust, as well as with cleanliness and sensual beauty.
Indeed, cats are seldom depicted favourably in art until the nineteenth century when, through breeding, their dominant role became that of the household pet.
Read more
Historically they are more often depicted stealing or scrounging for food or fighting.
Artworks
Stranger on the ShoreEden Box (1919–1988)
Southampton City Art Gallery
Round House, Hallam Lane, Arnold, NottinghamshireW. J. Elliot (active 1924–1966)
Nottinghamshire County Library Service
Puss Puss is Referred to the Disfigurement Guidance CentrePeter Trust (1936–2008)
Bedford Hospital
Still Life with Fish and a CatAlexander Adriaenssen (1587–1661)
York Art Gallery
Man Feeding His Cat*Thomas Bowman Garvie (1859–1944)
Morpeth Town Hall
Pits to PeaksChris Tunwell (b.1959) and Patients & Staff of the Occupational Therapy Dept
Chesterfield Royal Hospital
Death of a BirdFrancis Wheatley (1747–1801) (attributed to)
Dundee Art Galleries and Museums Collection (Dundee City Council)