Monkeys and Old Man

The Humorous Tale of a Peddler and Mischievous Monkeys

This classic Chinese New Year woodblock print brilliantly portrays a humorous scene from a well-known ancient folktale. It depicts a startled hat merchant trying desperately to reclaim his colorful straw hats from a troupe of highly animated, mischievous monkeys. The clever creatures have climbed up a large pine tree and scattered across the hills, playfully mimicking the peddler by putting the brightly decorated headwear onto their own heads.

Artistic Heritage of Traditional Chinese Nianhua Folk Art

Originating from historic printmaking workshops, this lively composition utilizes bold black ink outlines filled with hand-applied mineral pigments. The dynamic scene features traditional Chinese landscape motifs, such as rolling mountains and stylized trees, contrasted against the chaotic and funny narrative of animal trickster behavior. Historically, such prints were highly sought after during the Spring Festival for their satirical humor, narrative charm, and decorative appeal.

Credit: The Claremont Colleges