The Good Cat and the Treacherous One. Cats in Graphic Art from the 16th to the 18th Century

The etching Head of a Cat (known in Czech as A Good Cat is not Greedy) from 1646 stands out as one the best known and most cryptic works by Wenceslaus Hollar; we could refer to it as his iconic piece. Hollar’s graphic eouvre includes several prints featuring cats – both “good” and “mischievous”. This duality reflects the ambivalent perception and representation of cats in early modern European art.

Cats have been a presence in European graphic art since the 16th century, initially as a secondary motif and later also as the chief subject. They found particular favour with Dutch and Flemish artists of the 17th century. Painters and engravers were drawn to their playfulness, mysteriousness, and other enigmatic traits. Cats were depicted not only in genre, allegorical, portrait, and natural-science scenes, but also in religious paintings. They carried symbolic and moral meanings, appearing, for example, in fables and satirical works. Additionally, capturing their fine fur presented a welcome challenge and an opportunity for artists to showcase their excellent craftsmanship.

This intimate exhibition of prints and drawings is complemented by the painting The Elderly Fool and his Cat from the studio of the distinguished Flemish Baroque painter Jacob Jordaens. 

A small catalogue in Czech and English accompanies the Graphic Arts Cabinet.