The British Library's Cool Cats

The British Library recently opened an exhibition with super meow-power: Cats on the Page, on view through March 17, presents an array of books, manuscripts, and artwork that features felines. 

"Cats have inspired our imagination and creativity for many years--long before their days of dominance on the internet," Alison Bailey, lead curator of the exhibition, commented in a press release. "By bringing cats we know and love together with new ones from unexpected sources, Cats on the Page showcases the light-hearted side of the British Library's world-class collections through a selection of just some of the hundreds of paws prowling the pages of its books and manuscripts."
 

cat book cover
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The British Library Board

The Pretty Playful Tortoise Shell Cat, London, 1817 (c) The British Library Board

cat poster
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The British Library Board

Tabby Polka by P- Bucalossi, 1865

breakfast
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The British Library Board Jellicle Cats illustration

Pussy's Breakfast Time, London, Ernest Nister, 1892