Primates in History, Myth, Art, and Science

Primates play a special role in human societies, especially in regions where modern humans and non-human primates co-exist. Non-human primates feature in myths and legends and in traditional indigenous knowledge. Explorers observed them in the wild, and brought them, at great cost, to Europe. There they were valued as pets and for display, their images featured in art and architecture, and where they were literally teased apart by scientists. The international team of contributors draws these different perspectives together to show how non-human primates helped humans better understand their own place in nature. The book will be of interest to undergraduate and graduate students as well scholars in disciplines ranging from anthropology to art history. Key selling features: Includes contributions from an international team of historians and natural scientists Integrates various perspectives and perceptions of non-human primates across time and place Summarizes the place of non-human primates in science, art and culture Includes rare early illustrations