1. Shape:
* Similarities to a monkey's face: Some argue the dish's shape resembles a monkey's face, especially the deep, bowl-like center and the rim that could represent the brow.
* Small size: Monkeys are often depicted as small creatures, and the dish's relatively small size could contribute to the name.
2. Usage:
* Feeding monkeys: Some believe the dish was originally used to feed monkeys, particularly in zoos or during exhibitions. This seems unlikely as it's a fragile ceramic dish, not suitable for feeding animals.
* Small portions: The dishes are often associated with small portions, like a child's plate. This could be linked to the perception of monkeys as mischievous and playful, suggesting a playful, smaller portion size.
3. Origin of the dish itself:
* Chinese porcelain: The earliest known "monkey dishes" are often associated with Chinese porcelain, specifically Qing Dynasty pieces. However, it's unclear if they were called "monkey dishes" at the time.
* Japanese "Saruwan" (Monkey's Face Dish): A similar style of dish is known as a "Saruwan" in Japanese, and it is specifically named after the monkey's face. It's possible that the term "monkey dish" is a Western adaptation of this Japanese term.
4. Cultural Association:
* Monkey imagery: Monkeys are often portrayed in art and folklore as mischievous, playful, and intelligent. This association could have contributed to the name, linking the dish to the playful nature of monkeys.
Overall:
The term "monkey dish" likely arose from a combination of factors, including its shape, size, and potential association with monkeys. It's important to note that the origin is unclear, and different interpretations exist. While it's an interesting name, it's best to consider it a descriptive term rather than a historical fact.