The Cat and the Goldfinches.

The Cat and the Goldfinches, 19th century, oil painting. Rouen Museum of Fine Arts. Goldfinches are little birds often spotted in religious paintings, especially the ones representing the Virgin Mary and the baby Jesus. The religious symbolism is cast aside here, and replaced by a naive yet charming realism in this mountain-view. However, a gruesome scene is about to take place: the cat, all quivering whiskers, is watching the innocent birds- undoubtedly thinking about his next snack. (Photo by: Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)