Artwork
Commerce des Muses
Commerce des Muses is a print by the Impressionist artist Paul Gavarni. It dates from 1857 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1924.283
- Credit line
- Charles W. Harkness Endowment Fund
About this work
Overview
Commerce des Muses is a print by Paul Gavarni, dated to around 1857, and is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a man leaning against a wall, with a statue on a nearby pedestal. The title Commerce des Muses, a play on words combining 'commerce' and 'trade with the muses', suggests a commentary on the relationship between art and everyday life.
Technique & Style
The work is characterized by a loose, sketch-like quality, capturing a moment with a sense of informality and humor. The artist's use of simple lines and minimal detail conveys a feeling of spontaneity.
Artist & collection
Artist
Paul Gavarni was the pen name of Sulpice Guillaume Chevalier, a French illustrator, born in Paris.
