Apen als apotheker (Monkeys as Apothecaries) - Matthijs Pool

A satirical etching from the early eighteenth century depicting monkeys acting as apothecaries in a detailed pharmacy setting.

This etching by Matthijs Pool belongs to the genre of singerie, a decorative style popular in the early eighteenth century that features monkeys dressed in human clothing and engaged in human activities. In this scene, the artist depicts an apothecary shop staffed entirely by monkeys. The composition is structured around the daily operations of a pharmacy, with various figures grinding herbs, preparing mixtures, and attending to customers. The level of detail in the background, which includes rows of jars, bottles, and medical equipment, provides a satirical look at the medical profession of the period.

Pool uses fine lines to define the textures of the monkeys' fur and the fabric of their garments. The scene is framed by a domestic interior, complete with a fireplace and a counter, which grounds the absurdity of the subjects in a recognisable setting. The inclusion of text at the bottom of the print, written in both French and Dutch, adds a layer of narrative commentary to the visual humour. The French text claims the apothecary is not a charlatan, while the Dutch text describes the preparation of ointments and preserves. This work reflects the contemporary interest in moralising satire and the use of animals to mirror human folly. The print demonstrates the technical skill of Dutch engravers during this era, who were adept at creating complex scenes with clear spatial depth and narrative clarity. It serves as an example of how print culture disseminated humorous and critical observations about social roles and professional practices to a wider audience in the Netherlands.