Ceramic Black Cat

This ceramic cat brings more than decoration to a room: it has a presence all its own. Its bright eyes, alert posture and deep black glaze give it that blend of character and familiarity found in pieces you notice immediately… and treasure for years.

It is crafted in a workshop in Caldas da Rainha, the historic heart of Portuguese ceramics. Here, the folk tradition has always drawn inspiration from the world around the artisan: familiar animals, plants, everyday scenes and local characters naturally find their way into ceramic art.

Placed on a console table, a bookshelf, a low cabinet or among a collection of favourite objects, this cat brings depth and personality to an interior. Its glossy black finish feels equally at home in contemporary and eclectic settings, with a character that makes it much more than a simple ornament.

The textured fur, deliberately expressive features and subtle variations in the glaze give each piece its distinctive appeal. As with many artisan-made Portuguese ceramics, small differences in the finish may occur from one piece to another: a reminder of the hands and workshop behind each creation.

Why I love it

• Its almost lifelike expression, which makes it easy to grow attached to.
• A striking decorative piece that feels at home in so many interiors.
• Its roots in the ceramic tradition of Caldas da Rainha.

 

 

Product details

• Material: Ceramic
• Made using traditional ceramic moulds
• Height: 27cm (10.6'')

More informations?

This piece comes from a small workshop in west-central Portugal, in the province of Estremadura. Its design is characteristic of Caldas da Rainha ceramics, whose best-known artist is Bordallo Pinheiro.

The moulds used in this workshop are passed down through generations, and the current owner still works with those inherited from his grandfather. Every piece is carefully made entirely by hand, with production kept to very small quantities.