Woman with Pet Monkey c. 1767 - 1768

This is “Woman with Pet Monkey” by Suzuki Harunobu, a woodblock print created in Japan. It presents a serene image of a woman with a monkey, and the presence of the monkey, richly symbolic, is steeped in cultural meanings. In Japan, monkeys have long been associated with guardianship, particularly protecting against evil spirits. We see echoes of this across cultures - recall the simian deities in ancient Egypt, like Thoth, god of wisdom. Yet, here, the monkey's presence is more nuanced. The woman's gentle demeanor suggests a harmonious relationship, shifting the animal’s symbolism from a mere guardian to a cherished companion. The bond depicted taps into a deep-seated human desire for connection with the natural world, reflecting our complex emotional and psychological ties with animals. This enduring motif continues to evolve, mirroring our changing attitudes towards nature, companionship, and the very essence of what it means to be human.