Aap in mensenkleding omringd door bladornament 1683 - 1733

This print, made by Bernard Picart in the 18th century, is an etching, a technique that involves using acid to create lines on a metal plate, which is then inked and printed. Etching allowed for the relatively quick production of images, fuelling the explosion of visual culture at this time. This particular image, depicting a monkey in human clothing, surrounded by lush foliage, belongs to a genre known as “singeries.” These whimsical scenes were all the rage in aristocratic circles. What's fascinating here is the contrast between the laborious etching process and the lighthearted subject matter. Each line meticulously etched contributes to the overall effect of playful abundance, reflecting a world of leisure and consumption. The print itself becomes a commodity, a symbol of status, and a testament to the intricate dance between labor, artistry, and social aspiration. It reminds us that even seemingly frivolous images can carry profound cultural weight.