No Monkeying
Vintage print or lithograph on paper • After a painting by A. Simmonds (printed by A. Simmonds or published by a contemporary firm)
Style & Movement
Victorian / Edwardian Animal Satire and Humor (popularized by artists like Cassius Marcellus Coolidge)
Medium & Technique
Chromolithography or halftone photomechanical print on paper
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (circa 1900-1920)
Dimensions & Format
Medium format landscape print, approximately 18 x 24 inches including matting and frame
Subject Description
An anthropomorphic scene depicting two dogs (a French bulldog and another bulldog breed) and a monkey playing cards around a dark table. A glass of drink and playing cards are visible on the table, with the text 'NO MONKEYING' centered below the image.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. Shows notable age-related toning, foxing spots on the paper mat, and water stains visible on the upper left corner of the mat board.
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Acquired through standard domestic antique or thrift markets; likely hung in a home, pub, or casual establishment during the mid-20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Reflects the popular turn-of-the-century cultural fascination with anthropomorphic animal art, heavily popularized by poker-playing dog prints and humorous postcards of the era.
Notable Features
Features the clear title text 'NO MONKEYING' at the bottom center and publisher/artist credit 'PRINTED BY A. SIMMONDS' in the lower-left corner.
Condition Issues
Significant paper acidification, foxing, toning of the upper matte board, water damage/staining on the upper left of the mat, and potential light fading of the image.
Conservation Recommendations
Recommend reframing with acid-free matting and UV-filtering protective glass to halt further degradation from light exposure and acidic backing materials.