A Monumental Portrait of a Monkey

Stipple Master

Created:
Movement:
c. 1705–1710
None
key Notes:
Intricate Stippling, Anthropomorphic Expression
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Dimensions:
Outermost border: 48.5 × 58.7 cm (19 × 23 in.); Image: 45 × 56 cm (17 3/4 × 22 in.)
medium:
Opaque watercolor and gold on paper
Difficulty:
Expert
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story of the work:

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A Monumental Portrait of a Monkey

Artist: Stipple-master

Medium: Opaque watercolor and gold on paper

Date: c. 1705–1710

Artistic and Historical Impact

"A Monumental Portrait of a Monkey" exemplifies the intricate detail and precision characteristic of the stipple technique, which was highly regarded during the early 18th century. The use of opaque watercolor combined with gold highlights reflects the luxurious aesthetic preferences of the period, often associated with courtly art. This work is significant for its portrayal of animals with a level of dignity and grandeur typically reserved for human subjects, indicating a shift in the perception of animals in art. The artist, known as stipple-master, remains an enigmatic figure, yet their mastery of the stipple technique has left a lasting impact on the development of detailed portraiture in watercolor. The painting is a testament to the technical skill and artistic innovation of its time, contributing to the broader appreciation of animal portraiture in art history.

Description of the work:

A Monumental Portrait of a Monkey

The painting titled "A Monumental Portrait of a Monkey," created by the stipple-master around 1705–1710, is an exquisite example of the use of opaque watercolor and gold on paper, showcasing the intricate detailing characteristic of the period's artistic style. The artwork's subject, a monkey, is rendered with meticulous attention to texture and form, reflecting the artist's mastery in capturing both the elegance and naturalism of the animal.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Art Institute of Chicago

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A Monumental Portrait of a Monkey