Artwork

Le membre de toutes les académies

Le membre de toutes les académies, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1842
Le membre de toutes les académies, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1842

Le membre de toutes les académies is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1842 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Le membre de toutes les académies is a lithograph by Honoré Daumier, showcasing the artist's skill in capturing the nuances of 19th-century French society.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a man in profile, dressed in stylish attire, including a top hat and dark cravat, lounging with a cane against an urban backdrop featuring notable buildings and a dome, highlighting the contrast between his refined clothing and relaxed demeanor.

Technique & Style

Daumier's use of line shading in the lithograph effectively captures the details of the scene, demonstrating his technical proficiency and ability to blend humor with social commentary.

Context

The work reflects Daumier's observation of French society during the 19th century, using satire to critique the social norms and behaviors of the time.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Honoré Daumier

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.

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