Reclining Cat (1949.20)
The Reclining Cat (1949.20) is located in the Asian Gallery (106).
Cast in medieval Iran, this cat reclines with its forepaws extended, a pose that alludes to its sophistication. Artisans in Iran in the 1100s and 1200s were masters of metal, often using bronze (copper-based alloys). This complex process involved melting and molding the metal, then enhancing it with fine copper inlays for a striking contrast. Such craftsmanship was not just a show of skill but a reflection of the value that society placed on artistic metalwork. Copper is especially noticeable in the cat’s expressive eyes and eyebrows, which stand out for their lifelike quality and detail. The cat turns its head to watch us intently. Its engravings both emulate a domestic cat’s tactile fur and convey a texture of luxury and refinement. This object, likely a household item of significance, also makes us wonder about the role of the cat in medieval Islamic domestic culture. This sculpture suggests the many medieval Iranian households that might be adorned with living cats, whose bright eyes tracked the movements of the humans living alongside them. Its metallic media also suggests the bustling centers of trade in the Seljuq territories of Iran, between which caravans traversed long distances, carrying precious metals among other goods.
