Calico Cat

DateProbably 1900-1925

MediumWood, paint, sheet brass, and iron

DimensionsOverall: 8 x 21 x 5in. (20.3 x 53.3 x 12.7cm)

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1958.701.1

DescriptionA painted, stylized, freestanding, woodcarving of a reclining calico cat, its tail stretched out straight behind it, its ears made of sheet brassLabel TextOne of two cat sculptures possibly created by the same artist, this engaging feline convincingly expresses the noble serenity that has made cats objects of fascination and affection for ages. Cats have served as models for numerous sculpturesand paintings by American folk artists since the nineteenth century, and this sculpture may have been intended to represent an actual pet.