The ape, the cat and the roast chestnuts, plate
(c. 1875)
Medium
earthenware
Measurements
2.4 × 22.4 cm diameter
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
The Dr Robert Wilson Collection. Gift of Dr Robert Wilson, 2012
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
This work is inspired by an old fable about a monkey and cat who are household pets and friends. One day the monkey spies some chestnuts roasting on the fire and, having the more dominant personality, persuades the cat to retrieve them. The cat burns its paws in the process and the monkey eats all the chestnuts despite having promised to share. The fable is an anthropomorphic tale about tricking people into doing your dirty work.
Artwork Details
Place/s of Execution
England
Inscription
impressed in base u.c.: MINTONS
Accession Number
2012.111
Department
International Decorative Arts