A MUMMIFIED CAT, DISPLAYED IN EBONISED 'COFFIN'

possibly 17th century, mounted in an ebonised rectangular display with hinged glazed lid rising to the velvet lined interior,

the case 51cm wide x 30cm high

These naturally mummified specimens can date back to the 16th century, where the animal would have been incorporated in the foundations of a building to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck to the inhabitants. Cats are more commonly found, although dogs have also been discovered.