About the Work

In ancient Egypt, the cat was a highly esteemed animal with close links to women, and was often depicted as an important member of prominent households. Between 664-332 BCE a cult evolved around the cat goddess Bastet, who embodied the fierceness and power of a lion tempered by the grace and affection of a cat. In many tomb scenes cats frequently appear seated beneath the chairs of their owners or on sporting boats in the marshes of the Nile River.  

Further Reading:

Metropolitan Museum of Art
British Museum
Harvard Museum