Artwork preview

Two Apes and Two Monkeys

Adriaen Collaert

National Gallery of Art

The image is an etching with a ground-level perspective featuring animal-like figures and a distant landscape. Closest to the viewer, there are three prominent creatures: one resembling a monkey-human hybrid, one with a long body, and a lion-like figure with a bushy mane. The background shows a village or town with church spires and buildings, extending to hills or mountains in the far horizon. The etching technique is detailed with fine lines for textures on the animals and trees. The color scheme is monochromatic with shades of gray and black, enhancing shadows, highlights, and light effects. Water with sailing boats is seen in the distance.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1597
Medium
engraving on laid paper
Dimensions
11166 × 7527 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
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