Monkey musician (part of a set) 1755 - 1765

These porcelain monkey musicians were produced in the mid-18th century by the Derby Porcelain Manufactory. Figures like these were made using molds, with liquid clay, or slip, poured in to create multiple components. These would have then been carefully assembled and fired at high temperature, which is an incredibly skilled process. It's amazing how the artist has managed to capture the texture of the monkey's fur, the detail of the rococo costume, and the delicate facial expressions. The so-called ‘singerie’–monkeys dressed as humans–was a popular motif in European art during the 18th century. They acted as a satirical reflection on human society, often mocking the upper classes, and it is interesting to think about the politics of production: the factory owners creating objects that poked fun at their own clientele. Looking closely at the materials and manufacturing processes reveals not only the artistry and skill involved in making these figurines, but also how they reflect the social and cultural values of their time.