Drinkende kat 1831 - 1904

This small etching by Arnoud Schaepkens captures a domestic scene: a cat drinking, rendered with a simplicity that belies its depth. Cats, symbols of independence and mystery, have long captivated human imagination. The act of drinking, seemingly mundane, connects this image to ancient rituals, such as libations to the gods. The image evokes a sense of self-sufficiency, echoing the cat's solitary nature. Consider the ancient Egyptians, who revered cats, associating them with goddesses like Bastet, protectors of the home. Yet, in other cultures, cats have been viewed with suspicion, linked to witchcraft. This duality reflects our own complex relationship with the animal world. The image invites us to reflect on the cyclical nature of life—drinking to sustain oneself, a primal act, echoing through time. Perhaps Schaepkens, through this humble scene, prompts us to recognize the profound in the everyday, connecting us to the ebb and flow of existence itself.