Sleeping Cat c. 19th century

Kawanabe Kyōsai crafted this image of a sleeping cat using ink and color on paper. The cat, so often a symbol of mystery, femininity, and even ill-omen in the West, finds a different resonance here. In Japanese art, cats are often depicted as symbols of good fortune and protectors of silkworms from mice. See how the artist captures the quiet repose of the animal. This image harkens back to ancient Egyptian depictions of cats as revered companions, embodying a sense of domestic tranquility. Think of the goddess Bastet, protector of the home. The motif of a sleeping animal transcends cultures, appearing throughout history in different forms—from Roman mosaics to Renaissance paintings of sleeping dogs symbolizing fidelity. Kyōsai taps into a collective memory, echoing themes of comfort and peace. The simple, yet profound, image resonates deep within us, reminding us of the universal need for rest.