Muscat the Greek Rescue Cat – From Samos to Dutch Mascot

Meet Muscat

This is the story of Muscat, a rescue cat from the Greek island of Samos who became the living mascot of Gatto Purrfetto, a Dutch gift shop filled with handmade goodies for cat lovers.

In the heart of the Netherlands, in the quiet town of Lienden, Muscat is the lifeline of Gatto Purrfetto, the beloved companion and ever-present muse of shop owner and artist Renée.

Whether he’s frowning disapprovingly at a design, theatrically throwing himself across the workspace, or napping in the sun, Muscat’s personality is woven into every illustration and creation. He is Gatto Purrfetto.

Muscat

From Samos, With Soul

Muscat's journey begins in 2016, on the sun-drenched island of Samos. During a holiday there, Renée visited a local animal shelter and fate stepped in. A tiny red-and-white kitten with golden eyes had just been brought in.

He looked her straight in the eyes and without saying a word, made it very clear: “Bring me with you.” And so she did.

A Rough Start

Muscat was born in June 2016 and came to the Netherlands that September. Sadly, he had been separated far too early from his mother and siblings, something still noticeable in his behaviour. He sometimes struggles with frustration and lacks certain social skills. But over time, he and Renée have found a rhythm, a way to live and work together that embraces his quirks. His story is deeply entwined with her art.

The Muse with the Muscat Eyes

Named after the sweet Muscat wine of Samos, this red-and-white tomcat has the same warm golden glow in his eyes. He’s stubborn, sensitive, curious, and intensely present — a Greek tragedy on four paws. He’s not an easy cat, but he’s full of character. And that’s exactly what inspires Renée. His unpredictability, his rawness — they remind her that beauty lies in imperfection, in honesty, and in the little rough edges of life.

Studio Assistant (Sort of)

When Renée works on her beach art (like her Sea of Love series), Muscat is never far. He watches, taps stones off the table, or lies right in the middle of a project as if he is the artwork.

The beach stones she uses are handpicked from the shores of Samos, often heart-shaped, collected over long quiet hours. Sorting them is a team effort and Muscat’s opinion is vital (and also famously unpredictable).

A Taste for Materials

Natural materials like wood, ceramics, shells, and sand are Renée’s favorites to work with. Muscat has preferences too: he adores wood — the texture, the smell, the feel of it beneath his paws. Ceramic, on the other hand? Not a fan. Especially not wet clay. But once it’s finished? He’ll cast a lazy, judgmental eye from his favorite perch and give his silent approval.

The Hardest Creations

The most challenging pieces to make are the mixed media artworks, where wood, stone, sand, and paint come together. They must be sturdy enough to ship, but still feel delicate, poetic — a little magical. Striking that balance is always a challenge, but a rewarding one.

International Orders

Absolutely! Renée’s webshop www.gattopurrfetto.nl ships worldwide. If something doesn’t work via the website, just send her a message. She’ll be happy to personally arrange it with care.

One Cat, One Brand

From a tiny shelter kitten to the heart of a creative business, Muscat’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He’s not just part of Gatto Purrfetto — he is the brand: its attitude, its soul, its sense of wonder.

And while he may not always be easy to please, one thing’s for sure: nothing leaves the studio without Muscat’s silent (and occasionally judgmental) stamp of approval.

Follow Muscat and Gatto Purrfetto on their Instagram account @gattopurrfetto.