Dan Ostermiller (American, born 1956) Nine Lives, 2004 signed, dated, and numbered Dan Ostermiller / 04 / 7/20 (to the side) patinated bronze height 8 in. (20.32 cm.); length 18 1/2 in. (47 cm.); width 6 1/8 in. (15.55 cm.) This work is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity issued by Nedra Matteucci Galleries. Footnotes: Provenance Nedra Matteucci Galleries, Santa Fe, New Mexico; Acquired by the current owner from the above, 15 March 2005. Dan Ostermiller (American, b. 1956) gives sculptural form to the enduring proverb that 'a cat has nine lives' in Nine Lives, a composition featuring nine felines whose playful arrangement alludes to one of the world's most persistent animal myths. The expression reflects the belief that cats possess an extraordinary ability to survive perilous circumstances, a notion that has captivated cultures for centuries. The earliest known English reference to the saying appears in John Heywood's The Proverbs of John Heywood (1546), in which he writes, 'No wife, a woman hath nine lives like a cat.' Although this represents the first documented use of the phrase in English, the belief itself is often traced to ancient Egypt, where cats were revered as sacred animals and closely associated with the goddess Bastet, who was believed to have protective powers. Variations of the proverb appear throughout the world, underscoring the cat's universal symbolic appeal. In countries including Greece, Germany, Brazil, and Iran, cats are traditionally said to have seven lives, while in many Arab cultures they are believed to have six. These differing numbers reflect the symbolic significance they hold within their respective traditions. Despite these regional variations, the enduring presence of the myth across cultures speaks to humanity's longstanding fascination with the mystery, agility, and remarkable resilience of the cat. Condition reports are not provided in catalog descriptions. The absence of a condition report does not guarantee that the lot is in good condition or free from damage and wear. We encourage you to request a condition report and/or additional photos prior to bidding on any lot. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing