Squatting Monkey c. 16th century

Editor: Here we have Antonio Tempesta's "Squatting Monkey" at the Harvard Art Museums. It's a monochrome print, and I'm immediately struck by the almost human-like quality in the monkey's posture. What do you make of this intriguing image? Curator: Intriguing indeed! Look at the cross-hatching, creating such depth with simple lines, the intensity of the monkey's gaze. I wonder if Tempesta was commenting on human nature itself, perhaps even mocking societal norms through this simian lens? Editor: A satirical monkey-mirror? Curator: Perhaps! What do you see in those eyes, beyond the technique? Editor: I see… a touch of melancholy. I hadn't considered the satirical element before! Thanks!