In a unique blend of ancient history and modern pet culture, Shanghai Museum's Egyptian exhibition has captured the attention of both history enthusiasts and feline aficionados. The showcase, which began on July 19, 2023, and is set to continue until August 17, 2025, features an array of ancient Egyptian relics, with a particular focus on cat statues and feline imagery.
The exhibition, titled "Top of the Pyramids: Ancient Egyptian Civilization Exhibition," draws inspiration from the ancient Egyptians' reverence for Bastet, the goddess of protection often depicted as a cat. This divine feline connection has deep roots in Egyptian history, as the first known domesticated cats appeared in Egypt approximately 4,000 years ago.
One of the most intriguing aspects of the exhibition is the "Meow Night" event, held on select Saturday evenings. This innovative concept allows up to 200 visitors to bring their own cats to the museum, creating a unique interaction between modern felines and their ancient counterparts. Li Feng, Deputy Director of Shanghai Museum, explained the origin of this idea:
"Egyptian archaeological teams discovered a cat temple in Saqqara and unearthed many cat mummies and cat statues. So when we were planning the event, we had cats as a theme, and then came the idea for 'Meow Night'."
The ancient necropolis of Saqqara, located about 30 km south of modern-day Cairo, has yielded numerous feline-related artifacts. In fact, the largest cat cemetery was discovered in Beni Hassan, containing over 80,000 cat mummies, highlighting the significant role cats played in ancient Egyptian society.
To ensure the safety and comfort of both feline and human visitors, the museum has implemented strict protocols. Cats must be brought in carriers or pet strollers and can only be taken out in designated areas. Veterinarians are on-site to check vaccination records and monitor for signs of illness or stress. The event also provides rest areas for cats who might find the museum environment overwhelming.
The popularity of "Meow Night" is evident, with tickets selling out rapidly for each of the six events held so far. Qiu Jiakai, an attendee who brought her one-year-old cat An Mao, shared her enthusiasm:
"It's very special that you can bring a cat with you. I listened to the narrator's introduction saying ... many of today's pet cats are related to the cats domesticated in ancient Egypt. So I thought I would have to bring my cat here to see its ancestors and the cat goddess."
Indeed, DNA studies suggest that most modern domestic cats are descendants of Egyptian cats, creating a tangible link between the ancient artifacts on display and the feline companions of today's visitors.
The exhibition offers a fascinating glimpse into the reverence ancient Egyptians held for cats. These animals were not only worshipped but also played crucial roles in Egyptian society, controlling pests and protecting grain stores. The ancient Egyptians' love for cats was so profound that killing one was punishable by death, and the export of cats from Egypt was prohibited.
As visitors explore the exhibition, they encounter a wealth of cat-related artifacts, including mummies, statues, and depictions of cats adorned with gold jewelry. These items reflect the belief that cats possessed divine energy and could bring good luck. The ancient Egyptian word for cat, "mau," echoes through time, connecting modern cat lovers with their historical counterparts.
The Shanghai Museum's innovative approach to engaging visitors with ancient history through their beloved pets has created a unique cultural experience. As the exhibition continues, it promises to offer more opportunities for modern cats and their owners to connect with the fascinating world of ancient Egypt and its feline deities.