Singerie: The Sculptor

Französische Malerei 1740–1787, c. 1739

This is a painting of monkeys creating a sculpture. The scene shows monkeys working as sculptors. One monkey is chiseling a bust on a plinth, while others are nearby, some seeming to discuss or plan. The setting is outdoors with shrubbery, fencing, and a cloudy sky. Various tools and vessels are scattered around, creating a busy workspace. The painting captures a playful and satirical moment, featuring animals engaging in human-like activities. The style is reminiscent of the baroque period, similar to works by artist David Teniers the Younger, known for paintings of monkeys in human scenarios, also known as 'singeries.'
Artist
Französische Malerei 1740–1787
Date
c. 1739
Type
Painting
Medium
oil on canvas
Dimensions
83 × 119.5 cm
Collection
National Gallery of Art, Washington
Licence
Public domain, CC0

Image description

This is a painting of monkeys creating a sculpture. The scene shows monkeys working as sculptors. One monkey is chiseling a bust on a plinth, while others are nearby, some seeming to discuss or plan. The setting is outdoors with shrubbery, fencing, and a cloudy sky. Various tools and vessels are scattered around, creating a busy workspace. The painting captures a playful and satirical moment, featuring animals engaging in human-like activities. The style is reminiscent of the baroque period, similar to works by artist David Teniers the Younger, known for paintings of monkeys in human scenarios, also known as 'singeries.'

Französische Malerei 1740–1787