Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: February 6, 2023 by Crystal Uys
I recently came across these gorgeous handcrafted flying cats on Etsy. Don’t they look just like torties? The cats are hand carved and painted by Balinese artisans.
The story behind these magical winged cats is wonderful. The myth of these Winged Spirit Guardians goes back to ancient Majapahit Mythology in the 13th through 16th century. These guardian figures have deep cultural and spiritual significance. Often found as flying angels in animal or hybrid form, they are used to protect temples or homes from harm and drive away evil spirits.
The cats are available in several different sizes and styles. I was surprised that the largest cat has no tail. Debra Ramon, who owns Acadia World Traders, told me that many cats in Bali are Bobtail cats, which is probably why the carver left the tail off.
The Winged Guardian Cats are available from Etsy.
*FTC Disclosure: The Conscious Cat is a participant in Etsy’s affiliate program. This means that if you decide to purchase through any of our links, we get a small commission. We only spread the word about products and services we’ve either used or would use ourselves.
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.
The trouble with going to Etsy to see these flying cats is the numerous other charming things offered!
I know, right!
As the Tortie Cat is a hafbinger of luck, I would hang it over my bed, so that my kitty and I can see it first in the morning, and the last thing we see before sweet dreams. We’d love to win this Tortie Cat cutie 😉
These are very beautful and would make great gifts also. I would love to win one.
Years ago I got a calico when my heart cat Caddy died. It is still soaring above me as I type/
We really like them and got a black flying kitty last year. He goes up for Christmas above the tree
They definitely do look like torties. They are very pretty and unique.