Who painted Au Jardin des Plantes?

Au Jardin des Plantes was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1859.

Where can I see Au Jardin des Plantes?

Au Jardin des Plantes is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Au Jardin des Plantes?

Au Jardin des Plantes is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Au Jardin des Plantes

Honoré Daumier , 1859

Au Jardin des Plantes is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1859 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Au Jardin des Plantes is a lithograph created by Honoré Daumier in 1859. It is a representative work from the artist's extensive career as a printmaker in Paris.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a chaotic scene with a giant octopus menacing two men through a window. The octopus's tentacles grasp a crown, symbolizing a satirical commentary on power struggles and politics.

Technique & Style

Daumier employed lithography, a medium well-suited for mass distribution, to convey his social critique. His style is characterized by exaggeration and caricature, often used to humorous effect.

Context

Daumier's work was frequently published in satirical journals such as La Caricature and Le Charivari, where he targeted the monarchy, aristocracy, and clergy through his art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Honoré Daumier

Honoré-Victorin Daumier was a French painter, sculptor, and printmaker, whose many works offer commentary on the social and political life in France, from the Revolution of 1830 to the fall of the Second French Empire in 1870.