Satirische voorstelling van apen als tandarts, assistent en patiënt before 1913

Pierre Peeters made this satirical print of monkeys as dentist, assistant, and patient, using etching techniques. Here, the material qualities of the metal plate are key, as the artist would have painstakingly inscribed the image using fine tools, before bathing it in acid to create the recessed lines that hold the ink. The final print carries a textural richness and a subtle tonal range, a testament to Peeters's skill in controlling the etching process. Consider how the choice of printmaking—a relatively accessible medium—adds another layer to the work's social commentary. Etchings like this one were often produced in multiples, allowing for wider distribution and engagement with the artist's critique of societal norms. Ultimately, by focusing on materials, making, and context, we can fully appreciate the artwork's social and cultural significance.