The Metropolitan Museum of Art Earrings*Egyptian New Kingdom Cat Stud Earrings

These Fanciful Felines Recall The Gold And Carnelian Cat Effigies Perched On A Cuff Bracelet (Ca. 1479–1425 B.C.) Crafted During Egypt’S New Kingdom Period. The Cats On This Extraordinary Adornment In The Met Collection Evoke The Goddess Bastet, A Powerful Protective Figure Who Was Revered For Her Fertility. These Animals Were Sacred To The Egyptian Deity, Whose Cat-Headed Depictions Typically Emphasize Her Peaceful Traits.