The Monkey Room in the Tower Possibly 1799

This print by Thomas Rowlandson depicts a scene of fashionable visitors observing monkeys in the Tower of London. The monkey, often associated with mimicry and base instincts, is here presented within the context of human observation. Note how monkeys appear in this composition in a variety of poses and activities, some mirroring human-like behaviours. The group dynamic reflects a fascination with nature's 'grotesque' imitations of humanity, a theme seen repeatedly in art, such as in Renaissance grotesque art, where fantastical creatures blur the boundaries between the human, animal, and the monstrous. These animalistic figures tap into a primal part of our collective memory, provoking an uncanny feeling as we recognize distorted versions of ourselves. The Tower, a site of historical confinement, adds another layer to the scene, suggesting both literal and psychological captivity. The recurring presence of the monkey throughout history reflects a deep-seated human fascination, embodying primitive urges and instincts. Through Rowlandson’s lens, this primal symbol resurfaces, inviting us to question what it means to be human, and how tenuous the distinction between us and the wild.