Artwork
The Manners and Customs of Monkeys
The Manners and Customs of Monkeys is a watercolor work on paper by the British Romanticist artist Richard Doyle. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
Richard Doyle's 1850 watercolour, *The Manners and Customs of Monkeys*, depicts a whimsical scene where anthropomorphized monkeys mimic human-like behaviour under the guidance of a casually dressed figure in a red hat.
Subject & Meaning
The subject revolves around the humorous juxtaposition of human and monkey traits. Monkeys, walking upright and holding hands, contrast with the naturalistic background, suggesting a commentary on societal norms or the blurring of species boundaries.
Technique & Style
Doyle employed watercolour to achieve a lively, playful atmosphere. The expressive, near-human facial features and postures of the monkeys, alongside the detailed, serene natural background, showcase the artist's skill in blending realism with fantasy.
History & Provenance
Created in 1850 by Richard Doyle, the watercolour's ownership history is not detailed here, but it is currently part of the Victoria and Albert Museum's collection.
Context
Emerging in the mid-19th century, the piece may reflect contemporary interests in natural history, social commentary, or the growing popularity of zoos and menageries, which fascinated the Victorian public.
Legacy
While specific influence or widespread recognition of *The Manners and Customs of Monkeys* is not highlighted, it contributes to the broader legacy of Victorian-era art exploring the intersection of nature, humanity, and whimsy.
Artist & collection
Artist
Richard "Dickie" Doyle (18 September 1824 – 10 December 1883) was a British illustrator of the Victorian era.
