During her career at LIFE, Mieth produced hundreds of photographs and dozens of photographic essays. This article focuses on her most famous single photograph: a portrait of a monkey. This image has taken on a life of its own, beyond the intentions of the photographer or the editors of LIFE. It also sheds light on editorial practices at LIFE and exemplifies key aspects of Mieth's career at the magazine.

Meaning, memory and misogyny:
LIFE photographer Hansel Mieth's monkey portrait
Dolores Flamiano at BNET Afterimage
-
Rhesus monkey sitting in water 1939
Hansel Mieth at Monroe Gallery