Aap dwingt een kat de kastanjes uit het vuur te halen 1834 - 1890

"Aap dwingt een kat de kastanjes uit het vuur te halen" (Monkey forces a cat to take chestnuts out of the fire) is a black and white etching by Belgian artist Charles Verlat, created between 1834 and 1890. The artwork depicts a monkey forcing a cat to retrieve chestnuts from a fireplace, referencing the idiom "to make someone do your dirty work." The scene is set in a rustic interior with a focus on the animals' expressive faces and the monkey's forceful posture, capturing a moment of animal interaction in a humorous and satirical way. Verlat was known for his detailed animal illustrations and this print reflects his mastery of etching technique, showcasing sharp lines and tonal variations.