Some Things Never Change: A 19th-Century Cat Dad

If there’s one thing history proves, it’s that cat people have always existed—and they’ve always been proud of it.

This incredible 19th-century daguerreotype, sourced from the Library of Congress digital catalogue, features an unidentified gentleman posing with his feline companion, perfectly capturing a bond that feels just as familiar today. Maybe this was his favorite lap cat, or perhaps the cat just decided it was the perfect time to crash the photo (as cats do). Either way, this moment was preserved over a century ago, and now it’s been brought back to life.

Restoring this image was a rewarding challenge—bringing out the details in his suit, enhancing the depth of his eyes, and, of course, making sure his cat looked as regal as ever. The transformation from the original, time-worn photograph to the finished, vibrant restoration is one of my favorite projects so far.

Some things change, but a love for cats? That’s forever.

Let me know in the comments—would you have done the same if you lived back then?