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The Cult of the Cat will appeal to cat lovers as well as readers fascinated by mythology, ancient religions, folklore, symbolism, anthropology and the history of art. Its compact format and extensive illustrations make it an accessible introduction to the extraordinary cultural history surrounding one of humanity’s most enduring animal companions.
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The Cult of the Cat by Nicholas J. Saunders is an intriguing exploration of the cultural, religious and symbolic significance of cats throughout human history. Published by Thames and Hudson in 1991 as part of the Art and Imagination series, this illustrated paperback contains 96 pages and features 130 illustrations, including 16 in colour. The edition carries ISBN 0500810362.
Rather than treating cats simply as domesticated animals, Saunders examines the remarkable place they have occupied within the human imagination. From powerful wild predators to familiar household companions, felines have inspired fascination, fear, reverence and superstition across many different cultures and periods.
A significant part of the book explores the association between cats and the supernatural. Saunders considers the worship of cats in ancient Egypt, their appearances in mythology and religious iconography, and the symbolic meanings attached to lions, jaguars and other members of the feline family. The Cult of the Cat also examines the relationship between cats and ideas of royalty, power, guardianship and warfare.
The later sections broaden the discussion into folklore and popular belief, covering subjects such as witchcraft, astrology, superstition, heraldry and the transformation of cats into cultural characters and companions. The contents include chapters and illustrated themes dealing with cat worship, the power of the pelt, sphinxes, winged beasts, the lion of war, guardians and emblems, training and taming, and the cat as companion.
Saunders combines anthropology, mythology, art history and cultural history to create a richly visual study of the relationship between humans and felines. The numerous illustrations make this particularly appealing to readers interested in animal symbolism and the representation of cats in art.
The Cult of the Cat will appeal to cat lovers as well as readers fascinated by mythology, ancient religions, folklore, symbolism, anthropology and the history of art. Its compact format and extensive illustrations make it an accessible introduction to the extraordinary cultural history surrounding one of humanity’s most enduring animal companions.
Condition: Very good – Prior ownership inscription on front end page.
