Ancient guardians of the building in the style of Egyptian Revival (7 photos)

Statues of graceful black cats sit at the entrance to this Egyptian Revival building that looks like a temple, but in reality served a completely different purpose.





Walking past this old cigarette factory in London, it’s impossible not to feel like you’re being watched. The walls are covered with black cat faces, their deep yellow eyes constantly watching the street and passersby. Two huge statues stand at the door, like guards ready to swoop down at any moment to expose and punish trespassers.



Carreras' tobacco company began in the 19th century as a small shop made famous by the resident cat who often liked to nap on the windowsill. The company used a black cat as its logo, and retained this fondness for its feline roots even after opening a huge Egyptian Revival-style factory in the 1920s.





At the time, people around the world were fascinated by stories of Ancient Egypt thanks to the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb. The building was decorated with colorful Egyptian-style columns on the outside, and two regal cat statues representing the goddess Bastet were placed at the entrance. According to the original plans, the building was to be shaped like a temple to the goddess.



Even the grand opening of the factory was filled with the sensual extravagance typical of the Egyptian Revival. Sand was poured onto the pavement outside to make the audience feel as if they had been blown away into the desert. Aida actors paraded around the building, and other actors dressed in themed costumes to set the mood. There was even a chariot race nearby to complete the idea.



But the factory's Egyptian style didn't last long. In the early 1960s, the building was converted into office space. The signature decor was removed, and the two iconic cats that once sat behind the door were removed and separated. It wasn't until 1996, when the building passed into the hands of a new owner, that its former enchanting grandeur was restored. Now the columns are bright once again, black cats stare down from the wall, and copies of the original statues stand tensely by the door, keeping their permanent vigil.