Who painted Clémence de Minos?

Clémence de Minos was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1843.

Where can I see Clémence de Minos?

Clémence de Minos is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Clémence de Minos?

Clémence de Minos is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Clémence de Minos?

Museum-quality prints of Clémence de Minos are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Clémence de Minos

Honoré Daumier , 1843

Clémence de Minos is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1843 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:lower right in stone: h.D. / 441; by later hand, upper left in graphite: 2; by later hand, upper left verso in graphite: le lett[?] / A E S; by later hands, across bottom verso in graphite: 25037 Ny. 717 Kan Sf.

About this work

Overview

Clémence de Minos is a lithograph created by Honoré Daumier in 1843, characteristic of his satirical printmaking during the July Monarchy and Second Republic.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two figures in a symbolic, dimly lit setting: a standing man with a cane, looking down, and a seated, authoritative figure with a feather crown and scroll, pointing at the first. The scene conveys Daumier's republican critique, likely targeting monarchical or clerical authority.

Technique & Style

Executed in quick, sketchy lines, the lithograph prioritizes mood over detail. The stark, overhead lighting on the seated figure enhances the symbolic and satirical intent, while the overall darkness underscores the somber, critical tone.

History & Provenance

Part of Daumier's contributions to publications like La Caricature and Le Charivari, Clémence de Minos reflects his active role in 19th-century French political satire, aligning with his democratic, anti-monarchist views.

Context

Created amidst the political tensions of the July Monarchy and the rise of the Second Republic, the work is a product of Daumier's broader campaign to critique the French monarchy, aristocracy, and clergy through caricature.

Legacy

As one of Daumier's satirical prints, Clémence de Minos contributes to his legacy as a leading 19th-century French printmaker and social commentator, known for influencing future generations of artists and caricaturists.

Own this work as a print

Artist & collection

Artist

Honoré Daumier

Honoré-Victorin Daumier (French: ; 26 February 1808 – 10 or 11 February 1879) was a French painter, sculptor, and printmaker, whose many works offer commentary on the social and political life in France, from the…