For cat lovers, finding unique places to enjoy time with their feline friends is always exciting. Recently, a museum in Shanghai caught the attention of cat enthusiasts worldwide by hosting an exhibit featuring ancient Egyptian feline artifacts. The twist? Cats were invited to attend the exhibit with their humans!
A Feline-Themed Exhibit
Shanghai Museum hosted ‘Meow Night’ on Saturdays, allowing up to 200 visitors to explore the exhibit with their cats. This special event, which ran for 10 consecutive Saturdays, sold out each time, drawing both cat and history lovers.
“Egyptian archaeological teams discovered a cat temple in Saqqara and unearthed many cat mummies and statues. When planning the event, we chose cats as the theme and created ‘Meow Night’,” shared Shanghai Museum Deputy Director Li Feng.
Learning About Ancestral Cats
One visitor, Qiu Jiakai, brought her one-year-old cat, An Mao, and was fascinated to learn how today’s domestic cats are descendants of those from ancient Egypt. “I listened to the introduction and learned that many of today’s pet cats are related to the cats domesticated in ancient Egypt. So I had to bring my cat to see its ancestors and the cat goddess,” she told Reuters.
Visitors and their feline companions were seen sporting Egyptian-themed collars, adding to the fun atmosphere.
An Art Exhibit for Cats
Kira, a New York City vlogger, visited the exhibit and shared her experience. The idea of being there with her kitty to see these historic artifacts was both fascinating and whimsical. “Imagine being here with your kitty, seeing ancient artifacts that elevate them to such grand status!” Kira exclaimed. The museum provided water stations and a “quiet zone” for the cats, ensuring their comfort throughout the visit.
Safety First for Feline Visitors
The museum took extra precautions for its furry guests, with professional medical staff on-site and a requirement for cats to have up-to-date vaccinations before entering. This thoughtful planning ensured a smooth and enjoyable experience for both humans and their cats.
A Special Connection to Ancient Egyptian Cats
Egyptians famously revered cats, and while they didn’t exactly worship them, cats were considered sacred due to their connection with powerful deities. Many Egyptian goddesses were often depicted as felines or associated with cats, such as Bastet (Bast), Sekhmet, and Hathor. The exhibit paid homage to these goddesses, showcasing artifacts that highlighted the importance of cats in Egyptian culture.
Cats and Culture Unite
The ‘Meow Night’ exhibit was a unique cultural event that brought together history, art, and the love for felines. The museum’s efforts to cater to both cats and their humans were met with great enthusiasm, and the event’s success speaks volumes about the universal appeal of cats. As the exhibit came to an end, it left behind a legacy of fun, learning, and the celebration of the ancient bond between humans and cats.
In conclusion, ‘Meow Night’ was not just an exhibit; it was a celebration of the rich history of cats, their sacred role in ancient Egypt, and their continued place in our hearts today.
