A Maine Coon Astronomer Turned Away from the Stars for a Portrait

The court astronomer has paused his night's work to pose, and he does not seem to mind the delay. A brown tabby Maine Coon with a thick ruff and tufted ears looks calmly out of the portrait, a soft velvet cap tilted on his head. His navy robe is stitched with tiny gold stars and moons, and one large paw rests on a dark table. At the right edge, a brass orrery glints, its rings and little spheres ready to model the heavens.

The painter has given his fur real depth, with long, rough strands catching amber light along the chest and cheeks. Behind him, shadows pool in the corner as though the night sky is waiting for his return.

Maine Coons are among the largest domestic cat breeds, and they are known for being gentle, sociable and surprisingly chatty. Instead of a loud meow, many produce soft chirps and trills. Their shaggy coat is built for cold weather, with a thick ruff, a bushy tail and fur between the toes that works like built-in snowshoes. That coat does need regular brushing, especially behind the ears and along the belly, to prevent mats. They also grow slowly, often taking a few years to reach full size, so a vet can help you track healthy weight and growth.

The stars will have to wait a little longer. The astronomer looks quite happy to sit for his portrait, particularly if someone is going to brush that magnificent ruff afterward.