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Artwork

Le départ de l'hiver

Honoré Daumier , 1864

Le départ de l'hiver, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1864
Le départ de l'hiver, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1864

Le départ de l'hiver is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le départ de l'hiver is a lithograph by Honoré Daumier, dated 1864, depicting a satirical encounter between two military men and an anthropomorphized Winter.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph caricatures the struggle of military figures with harsh winter conditions, personified as a bulky, icicle-adorned figure. The scene conveys the season's authority and the soldiers' discontent through expressive gestures: one grasps a rifle, the other shakes a fist, while Winter looks back, unyielding.

Technique & Style

Daumier employs his characteristic sharp humor and distortion in the lithograph, blending realism with caricature. The contrast between the barren, bird-filled backdrop and Winter's detailed, icy attire highlights the artist's ability to evoke atmosphere and emotion through lithographic techniques.

History & Provenance

Created in 1864, the work reflects Daumier's ongoing critique of societal and political issues through satire during this period. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

This piece aligns with Daumier's broader satirical output, often targeting the French military and social conditions of his time. The anthropomorphism of Winter adds a layer of universality to the critique of military hardships.

Legacy

Le départ de l'hiver contributes to Daumier's legacy as a master satirist, influencing future generations of artists in using caricature to comment on societal issues. Its themes of seasonal struggle and military satire remain relatable and analytically rich.

Ayant attrapé un coup de soleil
Ayant attrapé un coup de soleil, Honoré Daumier

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…

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Le départ de l'hiver?

Le départ de l'hiver was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1864.

Where can I see Le départ de l'hiver?

Le départ de l'hiver is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Le départ de l'hiver?

Le départ de l'hiver is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Le départ de l'hiver?

Museum-quality prints of Le départ de l'hiver are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.