Young Sri-Lankan Toque Macaque Sucking Thumb by Jennifer Lowe, Stoneware, Unique, 25cm high, 41cm wide, 17cm deep, Animals and Birds sculpture, Monkey
Young Sri-Lankan Toque Macaque Sucking Thumb by Jennifer Lowe is a unique stoneware sculpture measuring 25 cm high, 41 cm wide, and 17 cm deep. The piece depicts a young Sri-Lankan toque macaque in a tender, almost childlike pose, standing upright while sucking its thumb.
The macaque’s body is compact and slightly rounded, reflecting the youthful proportions of the animal. Its head tilts forward, adding to the sense of innocence and curiosity. The hand brought up to its mouth conveys a moment of quiet comfort, while the other hand and legs remain grounded, giving the figure balance.
Crafted from stoneware, the sculpture carries a stylised aesthetic. The material’s natural texture and subtle variations in tone soften the details, allowing form and posture to take precedence over intricate realism. This artistic choice gives the macaque a warm, approachable presence while still hinting at the distinctive features of its species, the domed head, expressive eyes, and fine facial contours.
The earthy hues of the stoneware enhance the organic quality of the work, connecting the piece to the natural environment of Sri Lanka’s forests. Despite its simplicity, the sculpture captures an intimate, fleeting moment of animal behaviour.
Jennifer Lowe’s interpretation blends observation with artistic stylisation, creating a work that is both endearing and timeless. The piece invites viewers to appreciate not only the physical form of the macaque, but also the quiet emotional world it inhabits.
