Artwork

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1846
Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1846

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1846 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower right in plate: h.D.; lower right in plate: Imp. d'Aubert & C.ie; lower left in plate: Chez Aubert & C.ie Pl. de la Bourse.; across bottom in plate: GRRRRAND DEMENAGEMENT DU CONSTITUTIONNEL.; by later han d, lR //in graphite: L.D No 1475; by later hand, lLv//in graphite: MG-82-45-MEH

About this work

Overview

Honoré Daumier's 1846 lithograph Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel presents a chaotic, satirical scene of a move, critiquing the political press of his era. Characteristic of Daumier's socially conscious and politically charged oeuvre, this print conveys his republican democratic stance.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a group struggling with a giant wheelbarrow containing a finely dressed individual. Surrounding chaos, signs for apartments, and a 'Constitutional' club hint at a commentary on the 'weight' of political institutions or the struggle to advance democratic ideals amidst turmoil.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithograph on wove paper, the work showcases Daumier's mastery of the medium, utilizing bold lines and expressive composition to convey satirical intent. The chaotic visual language is typical of his caricatural approach, emphasizing the absurdity of the situation.

History & Provenance

Created during Daumier's prolific period of contributing to La Caricature and Le Charivari, this lithograph reflects his consistent targeting of monarchical, aristocratic, and clerical powers through satire. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Emerging in 1846, the work is situated within a climate of political tension in France, where the monarchy's influence and the role of the press were under scrutiny. Daumier's republican sympathies align with the broader political discourse of the time.

Legacy

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel contributes to Daumier's legacy as a pioneering figure in political caricature and lithography. His use of humor to address serious political issues continues to influence satirical art and commentary.

Le Déménagement de la Censure
Le Déménagement de la Censure, Eugène Delacroix

Artist & collection

Portrait of Honoré Daumier

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…

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel?

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1846.

Where can I see Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel?

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel?

Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel?

Museum-quality prints of Grrrrand Déménagement du Constitutionnel are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.