Cat Cabinet

Amsterdam, NL

Cat Cabinet
Cat Cabinet
Location
Amsterdam, NL
Category
iconic bucket list
Coordinates
52.36554, 4.89158
Best time
Morning or early afternoon
Weather tip
Check the local forecast before visiting.

Overview

The Cat Cabinet, or KattenKabinet, located in a historic canal house in Amsterdam, is a unique art museum entirely dedicated to the role of cats in art and culture. Visitors exploring places to visit in Amsterdam will discover a fascinating collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and posters, all featuring feline subjects. This distinctive institution offers an insightful look into how cats have inspired artists across centuries, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern works. It's an essential stop for art enthusiasts and cat lovers alike, providing a charming and often surprising perspective on human-animal interaction through the lens of artistic expression. The museum not only showcases a broad spectrum of artistic styles but also provides a serene atmosphere within its elegant 17th-century setting, making it one of the more delightful local attractions in the city center.

General information

The Cat Cabinet, or KattenKabinet, located in a historic canal house in Amsterdam, is a unique art museum entirely dedicated to the role of cats in art and culture. Visitors exploring places to visit in Amsterdam will discover a fascinating collection of paintings, sculptures, drawings, and posters, all featuring feline subjects. This distinctive institution offers an insightful look into how cats have inspired artists across centuries, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern works. It's an essential stop for art enthusiasts and cat lovers alike, providing a charming and often surprising perspective on human-animal interaction through the lens of artistic expression. The museum not only showcases a broad spectrum of artistic styles but also provides a serene atmosphere within its elegant 17th-century setting, making it one of the more delightful local attractions in the city center.

Did you know

  • The museum was founded in memory of a single, beloved cat named John Pierpont Morgan.
  • The Cat Cabinet is housed in a grand 17th-century canal house, originally built for the mayor of Amsterdam.
  • Several real cats reside within the museum, often seen interacting with the art and visitors.
  • The collection includes works by renowned artists and those influenced by feline themes, spanning centuries of art.

History

The Cat Cabinet was established in 1990 by Bob Meijer in memory of his ginger cat, John Pierpont Morgan, who passed away that year. Meijer, a wealthy Dutchman, dedicated the museum to his beloved feline companion, collecting a vast array of cat-themed artworks from various periods. The museum is situated in a double canal house on the Herengracht, a property Meijer purchased in 1985. The historical building, which dates back to 1667, was restored to house this unique collection, fulfilling Meijer's vision of a permanent tribute to the cat's enduring presence in art and culture.

Cultural significance

The Cat Cabinet holds significant cultural value by meticulously documenting and celebrating the historical and artistic representation of cats. Through its extensive collection, the museum illustrates how felines have been perceived and depicted across different eras and cultures, from revered deities in ancient Egypt to muses for modern artists. It underscores the profound bond between humans and cats, offering insight into their symbolic roles in folklore, literature, and visual arts. The museum serves as a unique cultural repository, highlighting the cat's consistent, if varied, presence in human creative expression and societal narratives.

Geography and landscape

The Cat Cabinet is situated in a historically significant location within Amsterdam's iconic canal belt, specifically on the Herengracht. This area is renowned for its elegant 17th-century canal houses, which reflect the city's Golden Age prosperity. The museum occupies a distinguished double canal house, characteristic of the architectural grandeur of the period. Its placement alongside one of Amsterdam's primary canals provides a picturesque setting, integrating the museum seamlessly into the city's urban landscape and historical fabric. The surrounding environment is defined by tranquil waterways, tree-lined streets, and other monumental buildings.

More facts

  • Imported from Wikidata

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