Artwork

Tête de juge

Tête de juge, by Honoré Daumier, 1854
Tête de juge, by Honoré Daumier, 1854

Tête de juge is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

Tête de juge is a drawing by Honoré Daumier, depicting a barrister in a characteristic style reflective of the artist's fascination with the legal profession.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a barrister, represents one of many legal figures Daumier caricatured after frequenting law courts post-incarceration for satirizing King Louis-Philippe.

Technique & Style

While specific techniques used in Tête de juge are not detailed here, Daumier's works from this period are known for expressive, often satirical portrayals, suggesting a similar approach in this drawing.

History & Provenance

Created after Daumier's 6-month imprisonment for caricaturing King Louis-Philippe, the drawing's exact date and ownership history are not provided in the available information.

Context

Tête de juge is contextualized by Daumier's post-incarceration observations of legal proceedings, fueling his caricatures of the profession.

Legacy

As part of Daumier's legal-themed works, Tête de juge contributes to the artist's legacy of satirical commentary on 19th-century French society and institutions.

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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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Tête de juge?

Tête de juge was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1854.

Where can I see Tête de juge?

Tête de juge is held by Victoria and Albert Museum.

What movement is Tête de juge?

Tête de juge is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Tête de juge?

Museum-quality prints of Tête de juge are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.