Teasing the Monkey Moreau Paul Charles Chocarne

The composition presents a scene unfolding outside what appears to be a small shop or vendor stall. A young boy, clad in a white apron and peaked cap typical of a delivery person or apprentice, is depicted extending a bottle towards a monkey perched atop a wicker basket overflowing with oranges. The monkey, dressed in a miniature military-style jacket and hat, seems to be playfully interacting with the spray emanating from the bottle’s opening. A second boy, wearing a dark cap and suit, stands nearby, his face contorted in an expression of amusement or perhaps suppressed laughter.
The artist has employed a warm color palette dominated by yellows, oranges, and browns, contributing to a sense of jovial atmosphere. Light falls predominantly on the figures, highlighting their expressions and clothing while leaving portions of the background in shadow. The shop’s interior is visible behind the boys, revealing shelves stocked with various goods – bottles, tins, and what appear to be advertisements – suggesting a commercial setting.
Beyond the immediate narrative of playful interaction between humans and animal, several subtexts emerge. The monkeys attire introduces an element of anthropomorphism, blurring the lines between species and hinting at themes of mimicry or social commentary. Its costuming could be interpreted as a satirical representation of human behavior or societal roles. The two boys’ reactions – one offering, one observing – suggest a dynamic of power and complicity within their relationship to the animal.
The presence of oranges in abundance might symbolize prosperity or exotic goods, while the overall scene evokes a sense of lightheartedness and perhaps a nostalgic view of childhood or urban life. The paintings charm lies not only in its depiction of a whimsical moment but also in its subtle exploration of human-animal relationships and social dynamics within a specific historical context.