Archaeologists in Jerusalem recently made an intriguing discovery that sheds light on the domestic life in the region over a thousand years ago. A fragment of a jug dating back to 1,200 years ago was found with the imprint of a small cat “making biscuits,” marking the oldest evidence of a feline kneading on record.
The team of archaeologists, led by Shimon Gibson from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, uncovered this unique artifact during an excavation at Mount Zion. The cat’s paw print was likely left behind when the potter placed the freshly made jug out in the sun to dry before firing it in a kiln. The moist and malleable surface of the jug allowed for the cat’s claws to leave deep marks, indicating that the feline was kneading rather than simply resting on the pottery.
Gibson and his team were fascinated by the discovery, speculating that the cat may have been enjoying the warmth of the sun as it left its mark on the jug. The size of the imprint, measuring 1.2 inches by 1.2 inches, suggests that the cat had laid on the edge of the jug, possibly basking in the sun while kneading.
This finding provides a glimpse into the daily life of inhabitants during the Abbasid period, a time when Jerusalem was under Islamic rule. Cats held a special significance in Islamic culture during this era, with references to them in early Islamic sources and even stories of Prophet Mohammed’s fondness for felines.
In addition to the cat print, the archaeologists also discovered small fingerprints on other pottery fragments, likely belonging to the potter’s children who assisted in the production process. These markings offer a unique insight into the lives of individuals living in ancient Jerusalem.
The jug fragment with the cat print has been processed and will be handed over to the Israeli authorities for further examination. This remarkable discovery not only highlights the presence of cats in ancient Jerusalem but also adds a charming and relatable aspect to the archaeological record, showcasing the connection between humans and animals throughout history.