Cat
1819
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
1819
paint
From the collection of Victoria and Albert Museum
This painting shows a cat crouched low, tail flicking, eyes locked on prey. Made in China in 1819, it’s more than just a cat. People believed painting cats on New Year’s Day kept pests away all year. The artist signed it on the fifth day of the New Year. That tradition ties art to luck, not just looks. Look up Ji Biao next.
