‘Star Cat’ Living and Breathing in Ancient Art, Egyptian Mau: A History of Cats in Mural and Sculpture
In ancient Egypt, cats were not just animals. Back then, they were conservationists for homes and temples, and became sacred. While there is no clearly defined origin of the ancient Egyptians’ sanctification of cats, there is evidence that they played a significant role from the time of the ancient Egyptian Kingdom (around 2686 B.C. to 2181 B.C.). The sanctification of cats can be attributed to several factors.
1. **Pest control:** Cats had an excellent ability to catch mice and other pests that harm crops. As Egypt was a society that relied mostly on agriculture, cats also played an important economic role.
2. **Myths and Religions:** In Egyptian mythology, cats were associated with several gods. In particular, the cat goddess ‘Bastet’ was considered the guardian of homes, families, births, and women. Bastet was often depicted in the form of cats, and cats were associated with this goddess and considered sacred
3. **Cultural Symbols:** Cats were also considered symbols of stealth, elegance, and protection. In Egyptian art and culture, cats were often used as important motifs symbolizing these traits.
4. **Domesticization of cats:** The process of domesticating cats is believed to have originated in Egypt. As wild cats came into contact with humans, they were gradually domesticated, and their importance was further highlighted in the process.