Cats in ancient Egypt were not just pets but representatives of Bastet, the goddess of fertility, and Re, as the great cat of Heliopolis. The popularity of their cults in the Late Period led to the manufacture of many bronze seated cat statuettes. The feline sits with its head held erect and tail curled to the right. The feline’s expression is attentive, with ears slightly back. The animal’s left ear is pierced with an ancient gold earring. This figurine was so highly valued that it was repaired in antiquity.
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