Artwork

Le Fantome

Le Fantome, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1835
Le Fantome, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1835

Le Fantome is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le Fantôme is a lithograph created by Honoré Daumier in 1835, exemplifying his satirical approach during a prolific period of political caricature production for Parisian journals.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a ghostly figure in a white robe attempting to ring a doorbell at a stone building, eliciting a frightened or surprised response from a face inside. This scene serves as a vehicle for Daumier's sharp social and political commentary, targeting the monarchy, aristocracy, and clergy in post-Revolutionary France.

Technique & Style

Daumier utilized lithography for its capacity to produce mass-circulated, direct visual commentary. The work features a quick, sketchy style, a dark background, and a glowing effect around the ghost's hand, collectively creating an eerie atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created in 1835 for publication in journals like La Caricature and Le Charivari, Le Fantôme reflects Daumier's republican ideals and his influential role in the satirical press of the era.

Context

This lithograph is situated within the vibrant satirical publishing scene of 19th-century Paris, where artists like Daumier used their work to critique the social and political landscape of France following the Revolution.

Legacy

While specific lasting impacts of Le Fantôme are not detailed, it contributes to Daumier's legacy as a pioneering satirical artist, highlighting the enduring relevance of his political commentary through lithography.

Rue de la Vieille lanterne (The Suicide of Gérard de Nerval)
Rue de la Vieille lanterne (The Suicide of Gérard de Nerval), Gustave Doré

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.

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Le Fantome?

Le Fantome was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1835.

Where can I see Le Fantome?

Le Fantome is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Le Fantome?

Le Fantome is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Le Fantome?

Museum-quality prints of Le Fantome are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.