A Seated Monkey on a Chain

Hendrick Goltzius (1558-1617), black, ochre, and red chalks, c. 1597

With masterly strokes and hatching, Hendrick Goltzius drew this Asian rhesus monkey, recognizable by its pinkish face, framed by fur. He devoted a great deal of attention to the faithful rendering of the fur, cleverly using the white of the paper to create subtle contrasts of light and dark. A fettered monkey had a special meaning, alluding to sinful man who is shackled to the earth through his lust for wealth.

  • Artwork typedrawing
  • Object numberRP-T-1888-A-1510
  • Dimensionsheight 406 mm x width 300 mm
  • Physical characteristicszwart, geelbruin en rood krijt