The Cat

Following Tate’s recent publication, Love (2019), this new selection of works showcases the most endearing, quirky and amusing depictions of cats drawn from Tate’s collection.

Cats have been revered for centuries. The beauty, charm and beguiling character of these animals have given them a special place in both our hearts and our homes. But they have also provided endless inspiration for artists who have long been fascinated by these furry muses. From moody moggs to fierce felines, lap cats or solitary tabbys and toms, this gorgeous little book brings together the most endearing, quirky and amusing depictions of cats drawn from Tate’s collection.

Featuring a wide variety of works by artists including Prunella Clough, John Craxton, Sunil Gupta, Eduoard Manet, Bernard Leach, David Hockney, William Blake, Andy Warhol and Alex Katz, images of companionship, domesticity and affection accompanied by pithy, insightful texts reveal the prominent place these enchanting creatures hold in our society, and how they have influenced artists around the world.

Sometimes traditional, sometimes contemporary, often touching and occasionally telling, placed together these beautiful images are a fascinating and joyful visual journey through the portrayal of cats in Western art and are a fitting tribute to our feline friends.

About the Author

Emilia Will is an editor at Tate and freelance author. She has worked in various private and public galleries including Whitechapel Gallery, The Victoria and Albert Museum and Royal Museums Greenwich. Interested in the intersection of fine art, popular culture, politics and folklore she lives in London where she spends her spare time growing vegetables.