Singer for the Monkey Band c. 1765

This porcelain figure, made by the Meissen Manufactory, depicts a monkey dressed in human clothing, a motif known as a "singerie." The fashion for "singerie" emerged in the early 18th century and became a popular way to satirize human behavior. Monkeys, in this context, symbolize the imitation and absurdity of human actions. These whimsical figures often appeared in decorative arts, from paintings to porcelain. Think of the many depictions of monkeys mimicking human activities throughout history, each iteration reflecting a fascination with our own nature. The act of imitation is a powerful, subconscious element of human psychology, and this is reflected in the continuous recurrence of the motif throughout art history. The "singerie," therefore, serves as a mirror, reflecting humanity's follies and vanities through the playful guise of monkeys. It is a cycle of observation, imitation, and self-recognition.