Kathryn Hughes

Historian Kathryn Hughes discusses the Victorian cat craze, Louis Wain's impact on feline love, and the shift from cats as pests to cherished pets. The podcast explores societal attitudes, cat literature, breed development, and the decline of cat adoration post-WWI. It also uncovers hidden anti-suffrage cat imagery and the global influence of Victorian cat mania.

In this lively discussion, Kathryn Hughes, author of 'Catland,' delves into the fascinating history of the cat lady trope. She uncovers how societal perceptions of cats shifted dramatically by the late 19th century, turning them from farm animals into cherished pets. Kathryn highlights the resilience of the Lloyd sisters, who faced prejudice over their love for cats, and examines how feline imagery was weaponized against suffragists. With reflections on Louis Wain's artistic journey, she reveals the deeper cultural significance of cats and their connection to social dynamics.

Orlando Whitfield, a writer and former art dealer, shares his riveting experiences with art fraudster Inigo Philbrick, revealing the complexities of friendship intertwined with deceit in the art world. He discusses the profound psychological toll of fraud and paranoia, detailing how it led him to rehab. Kathryn Hughes, a literary critic, joins him to explore the intricacies of value in art and their journey of adapting Orlando's memoir into a thrilling script, hinting at potential cinematic glory. An insightful deep dive into art's darker side!