Abstract

A wide variety of animals inhabit Minoan art. Each type fulfils a specific role. Monkeys and apes function very differently from other creatures: sometimes they participate in rituals, sometimes they imitate humans and sometimes they simply behave as natural animals. This study explores these different roles. The discussion of their iconography is set within the broader context of Egyptian and Near Eastern art and involves consideration of the use of ‘pattern books’ or standardised images in Minoan wall paintings, figurines and glyptic. The analyses inform broader themes in Minoan art, religion and cult practice. In addition, a substantial appendix surveys the range and nature of other terrestrial, aquatic and mythical creatures.