Who painted Avis aux amateurs?

Avis aux amateurs was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1871.

Where can I see Avis aux amateurs?

Avis aux amateurs is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Avis aux amateurs?

Avis aux amateurs is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Avis aux amateurs

Honoré Daumier , 1871

Avis aux amateurs is a print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1871 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

The word *plebiscite* hints this might be about voting or public opinion—maybe a joke about empty promises.

This sketch shows two exhausted people slumped on the ground, their bodies sprawled out. Above them, three empty chairs sit on a raised platform with dates—1851, 1870, and a smudged "18..."—like a stage waiting for actors. The word "PLEBISCITE" looms at the top, and the whole scene looks drawn in quick, rough lines.

The word *plebiscite* hints this might be about voting or public opinion—maybe a joke about empty promises. The dates suggest a timeline, but the smudged one feels like a warning.

Next, check out Realism to see how artists used everyday scenes to make political points.

Overview

Avis aux amateurs is a gillotype print on newsprint created by Honoré Daumier in 1871. It exemplifies his work as a printmaker and caricaturist, known for commentary on French society and politics.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two exhausted figures on the ground below a stage with three empty chairs, labeled with the dates 1851, 1870, and an unclear earlier date. The word 'PLEBISCITE' dominates the top, suggesting a commentary on voting or public opinion, potentially critiquing empty political promises.

Technique & Style

Executed in quick, rough lines, the gillotype on newsprint reflects Daumier's characteristic style as a caricaturist. The use of gillotype, a relatively rapid printing process, suited his prolific output and ability to respond to current events.

Context

Daumier's work was influenced by the tumultuous period in France following the Revolution of 1830 and the fall of the Second French Empire in 1870. His prints often targeted the monarchy, aristocracy, and clergy, reflecting his republican democratic views.

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.