Aap gekleed als schilder met palet en baret c. 1884

Joseph Schippers created this etching of a monkey dressed as a painter in 1894. This image raises questions about the status of the artist, and about art institutions, in late 19th century Netherlands. As we consider the visual codes, historical associations, and cultural references of this etching, we can see how it may comment on the social structures of its time. Here, Schippers uses satire, a popular trope in the 19th century. The artist is portrayed as a monkey: is Schippers saying that artists are as simple as monkeys? Or is he critiquing the art world itself? What is the role of the artist in society? This etching prompts viewers to reflect on the meaning of art and the institutions that govern the art world. To fully understand this artwork, one must delve into the social and institutional context of the time. Art historians often consult primary sources, such as exhibition catalogs, critical reviews, and artists' letters, to gain a deeper understanding of the artwork's historical and cultural significance.