Pennsylvania Antiques Show 2026

Outstanding Decorative Arts from the 17th to the 20th century. E arle D. V anDekar of Knightsbridge, Inc Folk Art Woolwork Depicting a Cat The Ship Cat, Circa 1860s The Ship’s Cat in Maritime Culture Cats occupied an important role aboard sailing vessels, valued for their utility in controlling vermin and their perceived ability to bring good fortune. The cat’s broad stance and emphasized paws correspond visually with characteristics historically associated with polydactyl cats, commonly referred to as “ship’s cats.” Polydactylism occurs with notable frequency in port cities and coastal regions, particularly in New England, a distribution attributed to maritime trade networks. In maritime belief systems, such cats were often regarded as auspicious and protective figures. Height: 20 1 / 2 inches x Width: 16 1 / 2 inches Paul Vandekar Earle D. Vandekar of Knightsbridge, Inc. Tel: 212-308-2022 www.vandekar.com PO Box 586, Downingtown, PA 19335-0586 Member of the British Antique Dealers' Association (BADA), Art & Antique Dealers League of America (AADLA), Antique Dealers' Association of America, Inc. (ADA), & Antiques Council BOOTH ✷ 52 ✷