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The Monkey and the Cat, probably 1670s (oil on canvas)
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The Monkey and the Cat, probably 1670s (oil on canvas)
XOS5879616 The Monkey and the Cat, probably 1670s (oil on canvas) by Hondius, Abraham Danielsz. (c.1625-95); 80x93.5 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: This picture interprets one of AesopAs ancient Greek fables (or probably the more contemporary interpretation by Jean de la Fontaine, even more famous at the time), which warns of the dangers of flattery. A monkey sweet-talks a cat into pulling scalding chestnuts out of the fire. The cat finishes the risky and painful task to discover that the monkey has already gobbled up nearly all of them. oil on canvas, c.1670 by Abraham Hondius); Dutch, out of copyright
Media ID 22767394
© Bridgeman Images
Aesops Fables Brazier Chestnut Fable Fires Kitten La Fontaine Jean De 1621 1695 Work Monkey Monkeys Morale Pussy Dine Flemish Art Four Elements
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The Monkey and the Cat - A Fable of Flattery and Betrayal
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This 17th-century oil painting, titled "The Monkey and the Cat" depicts a cautionary tale from ancient Greek fables. Painted by Abraham Hondius in the 1670s, this artwork measures 80x93.5 cm and is housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art. In this scene, we witness a cunning monkey employing his silver tongue to manipulate an unsuspecting cat into retrieving scalding chestnuts from a blazing fire. The cat dutifully carries out this dangerous task, only to discover that the conniving monkey has devoured most of the chestnuts while she suffered. This timeless story serves as a powerful reminder about the perils of flattery and deceit. It draws inspiration from both Aesop's ancient Greek fables and Jean de la Fontaine's more contemporary interpretation, which gained immense popularity during that era. Abraham Hondius masterfully captures not only the vivid emotions on both animal faces but also intricate details such as botany elements surrounding them. This painting showcases his exceptional talent for storytelling through art. As viewers gaze upon this masterpiece, they are transported back in time to reflect upon human nature's complexities—our vulnerability to manipulation and our need for discernment when faced with sweet words or promises. "The Monkey and the Cat" stands as a testament to how art can transcend centuries, conveying moral lessons that remain relevant even today.
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