Monkey on a snow hill c. mid 19th century

Ōhara Donshū painted this scroll of ink and color on silk, depicting a monkey amidst a snowy landscape. In East Asian art, the monkey can symbolize mischief but also protection. Here, it embodies a sense of playful vitality against the stark winter scene. Consider the enduring image of the monkey across cultures. In ancient Egypt, baboons were associated with Thoth, the god of wisdom. Meanwhile, in Chinese folklore, the Monkey King is a trickster hero, a symbol of rebellious spirit. The monkey’s presence here is no accident. It brings a spark of life to the monochrome, engaging us on a primal level. This is a symbol that transcends cultures, evolving yet retaining its core essence across time.