During the Edo era, monkey trainers were quite commonly seen, especially in the Edo area, now known as Tokyo.

Monkey performances were believed to ward off bad spirits, and cure sickness, and were welcomed by people.

This image appears to depict a scene from a Kabuki play, with two actors made up as monkeys, with their trainers behind them.

The artist is Katsukawa Shunzan (勝川春山), one of the disciples of Katsukawa Shunsho. The dancing postures are naturally depicted, and every detail is carefully carved and printed, showing the high skill of the cooperation between the artist and craftsmen.