The cat has always been considered a magical creature, conversant at once with the world of man and the world of spirits. Its extensive mythology stretches from ancient Egypt -- where it was worshipped as a god -- to the England of the 16th Century -- when it was demoted to the rank of demon -- and far beyond. It has been made the subject of myth, fable and occult symbolism in art, religion and literature throughout the ages. And with its strange eyes, it has also become a symbol of night - and the unconscious.

The Secret Lore of the Cat covers a wide range of topics -- such as the creature's legendary vision; its appearance in nursery rhymes and old wives' tales, Irish fairy tales and Teutonic folklore; its associations with the Virgin Mary; the 'oracular cat'; feline powers of prediction; the healing car and the psychic ties between man and beast; black cat myths and demonic cat; the witches' familiar; the cat in art and alchemy; and the mystic significance of the cat's nine lives.

Cat-lovers everywhere will find this book -- lavishly illustrated with superb paintings and prints -- a stimulating, revealing and wholly enchanting guide to the secret mysteries of this fabled animal.

Condition: Pre-loved book. Minor yellowing of pages; previous owner's name on front page. Otherwise in good condition.

Format: Paperback
Year published: 1990
Pages: 207
Sub-genre: Non-fiction.
Imprint: Grafton Books