Global Art & Artifacts

Maitland-Smith Bronze Monkey Card or Candle Holder.  Singerie.  Philippines

Click the photo above for a larger version and more pictures

 

 

Singerie, a visual arts depiction, can be found back in ancient Egypt but more popular in France over the last couple of centuries.  The word – singerie – is the name given to a visual arts genre depicting monkeys imitating human behavior.  Such monkeys are often dressed in high attire, intended as a diverting sight, always with a gentle cast of mild satire.  You know, like French satire is noted for.

 

I have a number of these singerie pieces.

 

And, of course, this is another piece from Maitland-Smith.

 

Maitland-Smith – founded by a well-known London antique dealer and designer – acquired and reproduced world class and quality products.  Their expertise includes metal casting, finely executed porcelains, sophisticated finishing techniques, detailed hand painting, beautiful inlaid marquetry/parquetry, the finest hand carved woodwork and the highest quality hand finishing/painting.

 

This piece shows off their expertise in the lost wax casting process . .  another time-honored technique that was developed long before the machine age.

 

Great for a business card holder, a candle or a modest amount of loose pocket change.

 

Some red paint chips but otherwise in great condition.  Felt bottom.

 

A great conversation piece.

 

 

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