Spelende apen 1720 - 1767

Editor: Here we have "Spelende Apen," or "Playing Monkeys," an etching from sometime between 1720 and 1767 by Leonard Schenk. It's incredibly detailed for such a small work. Honestly, it feels… strange. The monkeys are dressed and behaving like people, but there's something unsettling about it. What’s your take on this piece? Curator: Unsettling is a good word for it. It tickles the back of my mind like a forgotten nightmare, doesn’t it? These "playing monkeys" aren’t simply cute animals behaving comically; they're steeped in the visual language of the 18th century, specifically touching on what we now term "Orientalism," mixed with elements of caricature and social commentary, all filtered through the lens of the artist's imagination, of course. Look closer; what do their clothes suggest to you? Are they participating in adult life? Do they remind you of something familiar? Editor: They seem to be dressed in…almost theatrical costumes. And yes, they are kind of mimicking adults and something grand in their actions, even, playing with what look like rackets! But there’s a real awkwardness. Are you implying they’re meant to satirize human society? Curator: Exactly. Consider the period. Etchings like these were often distributed widely. While some found delight in exotic imagery, a discerning eye would see a reflection—often a critical one—of human foibles, absurd social rituals and perhaps some sly poking at colonial power structures. And Schenk's skilled lines add a layer of unsettling whimsy. Does it perhaps echo other artworks with hidden or dark humor? Editor: It does now that you mention it! I’m seeing so much more than just silly monkeys. Curator: Precisely! The beauty of art lies not only in what it shows us, but in how it challenges us to consider our assumptions and preconceptions. Editor: Well, this piece certainly monkeys with those! I'll definitely be thinking about this image differently from now on. Thank you!