Wiser Monkey

Wiser Monkey – Vintage Hand-Painted Decorative Figure (One-of-a-Kind)

Discover a rare vintage find: the Wiser Monkey, a beautifully crafted and meticulously hand-painted decorative figure. Finished in deep liquorice tones with elegant gilded gold highlights, this glossy piece showcases remarkable expression and character.

Each Wiser Monkey is sold individually, and only two unique pieces remain. Purchased singly, it makes a striking decorative accent or a sturdy paperweight. For those seeking a functional set, purchasing both remaining monkeys allows you to use them as distinctive bookends, thanks to their pleasing weight and balanced form.

Functional Use: paperweight, window/door stopper, or—if you choose to purchase the pair—stylish vintage bookends
Decorative Use: a charming display piece for shelves, desks, and curated interiors at home or in the office
 

Height: 14 cm
Body width: 10 cm
Head dimensions: 11 × 8 cm
Note: This is a HEAVY item
Delivery & Collection
 

Enjoy FREE worldwide delivery, including secure, protective packaging.
Prefer to collect in Bowral, NSW? Call or Email us for details on our pickup discount.

A Wise Monkey – Long ago, in a peaceful forest, there lived a wise monkey, the respected leader of eighty thousand monkeys. One hot day, after travelling farther than ever before, the troop grew desperately thirsty. They searched and searched until at last they found a quiet pond, hidden among tall, densely grown canes.

The younger monkeys were ready to leap straight into the cool water, but their leader raised his hand and stopped them.
“This place is new to us,” he said gently. “Let me make sure it is safe.”

The wise monkey walked the full circle of the pond, studying the ground with great care. At the water’s edge, he noticed something troubling: footprints that led into the pond—but none that returned. From this, he understood the danger.
“There is a water-ogre living here,” he warned. “We must not touch the water.”

The monkeys were disheartened, their thirst unbearable. But the wise monkey, calm as ever, offered them hope.
“Look around,” he said. “The canes grow thick and strong. We can drink safely if we use them as straws.”

So each monkey picked a cane, hollowed it out, and gently sipped from the pond without touching the water. Their thirst was finally quenched, and not one of them came to harm. The water-ogre rose in fury, but he was powerless—for he could not reach the land where the monkeys stood.

In this ancient tale, the monkey king represents the Bodhisatta; the eighty thousand monkeys, his loyal followers; and the water-ogre, Devadatta.

Who Is the Bodhisatta? In Buddhism, a bodhisattva is an enlightened being who chooses to delay nirvana in order to guide others towards awakening. They embody compassion, wisdom, and selfless service—“Buddhas in training,” devoted to helping all living beings.

Who Is Devadatta? Devadatta, traditionally remembered as both cousin and brother-in-law of Gautama Siddhārtha, is often portrayed as a divisive figure in early Buddhism. The stories describe him as an antagonist who broke away to form his own faction.

Moral Summary – This ancient tale teaches the value of wisdom, patience, and careful observation. Instead of rushing into danger, the wise monkey pauses, examines the situation, and finds a creative solution that keeps everyone safe. The story reminds us that true leadership lies in thinking before acting, seeing what others may overlook, and guiding others with compassion and courage. Through calm insight, even great dangers can be avoided.