Wall Mural Cat — Niello FAUNA, 925 Silver Artwork for Cat Lovers

The "Tomcat" wall plaque is a silver relief in 925 sterling silver featuring fine niello fur lines — a gift for cat lovers, a tribute to a beloved cat, or the start of your own silver animal gallery. It belongs to the Nielloa FAUNA line, our collection of animal motifs outside of the zodiac signs.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, hand-engraved niello (genuine niello inlay)
• Motif: Head of a tomcat facing forward with fine niello fur lines, acanthus scroll base
• Frame: Dark wooden frame with a golden decorative trim
• Mount: Red velvet
• Dimensions: approx. 145 × 145 × 17 mm
• Manufacturer: SevChern, Veliky Ustyug
• Hallmark: yes
• Packaging: Gift box

Material and craftsmanship

The tomcat's head is depicted facing forward and alert, with pointed ears, a direct gaze, and fine niello lines on the forehead, cheeks, and chin that trace the texture of the fur. The acanthus scroll base underneath gives the motif a heraldic, dignified weight — not a playful kitten, but a cat with character. Niello is one of the oldest silversmithing techniques: the dark compound does not sit on the surface, but is fused into the hand-engraved lines and permanently bonded to the silver — like ink that goes under the skin of the metal. The eye area is intentionally left polished silver, creating the contrast that gives the relief its depth. The wall plaque is crafted by SevChern in Veliky Ustyug, a center for Russian niello art with a tradition documented as far back as 1683.

Usage and occasions

For cat lovers who already own every calendar, mug, and pillow with a cat motif, this wall plaque is a gift that lasts instead of gathering dust. As a memory of a cat that has passed away, its name and dates can be engraved on the back — a dignified form of remembrance, not an object of mourning. This motif is also suitable for welcoming a new cat into the home or as a thoughtful gesture for the neighborhood cat that has been fed for years. If you wish, you can start your own wall gallery of silver animals with the tomcat.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

After inspection, we can engrave a date, name, or short dedication on the back or on the frame — commonly the name and dates for a cat memorial, or the recipient's name for a gift. On request, we include a personal SilberVerse card in 15 × 10 cm photo format with your order — individually designed, suited to the occasion, and free of charge.

Care

Clean the silver surface with a soft polishing cloth — no abrasive cleaners, no direct water. The niello becomes more high-contrast with every polish as the surrounding silver becomes brighter and the dark fur lines stand out more sharply. The wooden frame remains stable without special care, provided it is not permanently exposed to humid air.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this genuine niello or just blackened silver?

Genuine niello. The fur lines consist of authentic niello compound, fused in an open flame and permanently bonded to the silver — no artificial oxidation.

Can I give the tomcat as a memorial for a cat that has passed away?

Yes, that is a common use for this motif. Upon verification, we can engrave the name and dates on the back — turning the wall plaque into a personal keepsake.

Does the motif indicate the cat's gender?

The depiction is gender-neutral. The calm, direct expression is equally suited to a female or a male cat — the name can be adapted accordingly during engraving.

You might also be interested in

• Home accessories in 925 silver — further wall plaques and decorative pieces
• Gift ideas in 925 silver — for cat lovers and special occasions