Discovery of Adam 1891

"Discovery of Adam" (1891) by William Holbrook Beard is a humorous painting depicting a group of monkeys dressed in human clothing, examining a frog with great curiosity. The monkeys' anthropomorphic features and the playful setting create a satirical commentary on human nature and scientific exploration. The presence of a flying bird, a possible representation of Darwin's theory of evolution, further contributes to the work's thought-provoking theme. Beard's signature style, characterized by meticulous detail and a blend of realism and caricature, is evident in the lively depiction of the monkeys' expressions and gestures.