Home > Special Days > Christmas > Cats
Cat and owl as rat catchers on a Christmas card
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cat and owl as rat catchers on a Christmas card
Cat and owl as rat and mouse catchers on a Christmas card. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23076706
© The David Pearson Collection/Mary Evans Picture Library
Anthropomorphism Catch Catcher Catchers Dead Humanised Mice Owls Rats Stick Trap Traps Vermin
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Birds
> Owls
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> Special Days
> Christmas
> Cats
> Special Days
> Christmas
> Christmas Cards
> Special Days
> Christmas
> Victorian
EDITORS COMMENTS
Step into the whimsical world of this late Victorian Christmas card from the 1890s, where anthropomorphized animals take on the roles of rat and mouse catchers. The centerpiece of this charming scene is a sleek black cat, perched confidently on a log, its piercing green eyes fixed on its prey. In one paw, the cat holds a dead rat, a proud trophy of its hunting prowess. But the real surprise comes in the form of the owl, perched on a nearby branch, a knowing smile playing on its beaked face. With a gentle nod to the cat, the owl produces a long, stick-like trap from the folds of its cloak. The trap, adorned with intricate carvings and a jaunty red ribbon, is designed to ensnare mice. The cats and owls of this era were often depicted as clever and resourceful hunters, and this card plays up the humor and anthropomorphism of the animals. The dead rat and the owl's trap add a touch of the macabre to the scene, but the overall effect is one of delight and amusement. This card, with its intricate detailing and playful take on animal behavior, is a testament to the enduring appeal of anthropomorphism in art and design. It invites us to imagine a world where animals speak, hunt, and even celebrate the holiday season just like us.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
