A Unique Event in Shanghai
On a memorable Saturday night, the Shanghai Museum hosted its inaugural Ancient Egypt Cat Night, an event that quickly earned the term ‘a mewseum experience.’ A queue of glamorous visitors stood outside, twitching impatiently, tails flicking and whiskers quivering as they eagerly awaited entry. This unique event, designed for cats and their devoted owners, sold out within days. Shanghai’s pet owners seized the opportunity to share an educational and highly Instagrammable evening with their feline companions.
Cultural Connection and Modern Trends
The number of pets in China has surged, with over 120 million pets reported as of 2023. Notably, cats are the most popular choice among younger generations, who often view their ‘furred kids’ as a cheaper substitute for human children. The Shanghai Museum is leveraging this growing trend, planning a series of ten cat nights following the success of the first one. This initiative demonstrates how cultural institutions can adapt and connect with contemporary societal trends and interests.
Cats and Ancient Egypt
Once inside, the feline guests underwent thorough checks for vaccination and insurance records before being transferred into specially designed kitten-eared prams. The exhibition explored cats’ revered status in ancient Egypt, where they were considered sacred and associated with Bast, the goddess of fertility, birth, and protection. The event featured a section on Saqqara, a historic necropolis where numerous cat mummies have been unearthed. The guests of honor, many with their own social media accounts, posed for photos next to a Bast statue, adding to the charm and educational value of the evening.
The Rise of Feline Influencers
This event underscored the rising trend of feline influencers. Many of the cats present had dedicated social media accounts managed by small teams, adding to their online presence. This reflects a broader cultural shift where pets are not only companions but also digital celebrities in their own right. The cat night at Shanghai Museum is a pioneering event in China, blending historical education with modern pet culture, and it signifies the museum’s innovative approach to engaging the public.
