Feeding cats weighted toy

Date1870-1910

MediumWood, paint, and string

Dimensions2 1/4" H without string X 7 1/2" X 5 1/4"

Credit LineMuseum Purchase

Object number1962.1200.25

DescriptionFour cats sit surrounding a bowl on a flat base with a handle on one side. The cats' heads are separate pieces attached by wires. A string runs from the head down through the underside of their bellies and through holes in the base. The fours strings are knotted together underneath and attached to a wooden knob weight. When the weight moves, the cats' heads bob up and down as if they were drinking from the bowl.