Artwork preview

Netsuke of Monkey Looking at a Fly through a Magnifying Glass

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The image depicts a small, intricately carved wooden figurine of a monkey. The monkey has brown fur with white patches and appears to be sitting with its legs tucked under its body. Its right hand covers one eye, and it holds a large magnifying glass in its left hand, which is positioned over a large sphere. The sphere has an insect on it. The background of the image is gray, with a subtle shadow cast by the figurine. The figurine appears to be a netsuke, a type of Japanese miniature sculpture. The monkey's facial expression and posture convey a sense of curiosity. The magnifying glass and sphere suggest a scene of scientific inquiry or exploration. The overall effect is one of playful, whimsical artistry.

Artwork Details

Date
19th century
Medium
Ivory
Culture
Japan
Dimensions
599 × 399 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette