Artwork

Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ...

Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1847
Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1847

Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ... is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Honoré Daumier's lithograph, 'Un chapeau... deux chapeaux... les malheureux...', presents a poignant scene of a well-dressed individual, adorned in a top hat, paused in contemplation over a discarded hat and scattered clothing in a field.

Subject & Meaning

The subject invites interpretation, with the contrast between the observer's refined attire and the abandoned belongings sparking curiosity about the circumstances. The piece subtly critiques societal hierarchies through the juxtaposition of fashion and misfortune.

Technique & Style

Daumier employs meticulous shading and expressive line work, characteristic of his lithographic technique, to convey the contemplative mood and emphasize the narrative's emotional depth.

Context

Created during a period of social change, the work reflects Daumier's propensity for social commentary, using everyday scenes to touch upon broader themes of class and status.

Legacy

This lithograph exemplifies Daumier's influence in capturing the human condition through nuanced, open-ended narratives, contributing to his reputation as a keen observer of 19th-century society.

Aux Champs-Elysées, Ratapoil. Par suite d'une délibération philantropique [sic] du Comité du dix Décembre...à deux sous à club...deux sous...
Aux Champs-Elysées, Ratapoil. Par suite d'une délibération philantropique [sic] du Comité du dix Décembre...à deux sous à club...deux sous..., 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…

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 Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ...?

Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ... was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1847.

Where can I see Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ...?

Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ... is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ...?

Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ... is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ...?

Museum-quality prints of Un chapeau ... deux chapeaux ... les malheureux ... are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.