Dansende apen 1720 - 1767

"Dansende apen" (Dancing Apes) is an etching by Dutch artist Leonard Schenk, created between 1720 and 1767. The print depicts a group of monkeys dressed in human clothing, engaging in various activities, such as dancing and playing music. The scene is set in a wooded area with a river flowing in the foreground. Schenk's work is known for its satirical humor, and this print exemplifies that characteristic. The monkeys' human-like actions and attire are meant to be amusing and may allude to human folly or societal critique. This humorous portrayal of animals acting like humans is a popular theme in art, often referred to as "animal satire."