Ancient Lion, Cat & Feline Figurines

The favour of cats in Ancient Egypt derived initially from their ability to control pest populations. Cats were known as “miu” or “miut” (similar to the sound a cat makes, or “meow” as we know it today). Cats became beloved and pampered pets, especially in Ancient Egypt, where they were celebrated even by royalty. The strength, power, and majesty of the lion also became important in Egyptian art, with deities such as Sekhmet, Mut, Mehyt, Pakhet, Tefnut and Mahes, all appearing in leonine form over the years.