Artwork
Le Balayeur
Le Balayeur 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.
- 1924.291
- Credit line
- Charles W. Harkness Endowment Fund
About this work
Overview
Le Balayeur, a print by Paul Gavarni circa 1857, depicts a street sweeper at work, capturing a mundane moment from everyday life. The piece is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, a man sweeping the street, wears characteristic attire: a large hat, long coat, and loose trousers, with one shoe untied. The scene conveys the sweeper's physical engagement with his task, leaning into the heavy broom. The French caption critiques the cleanliness of Parisians.
Technique & Style
Executed in a Realist style, Gavarni focuses on ordinary, unromanticized life, diverging from depictions of high society or idealized themes. The drawing's attention to detail, from the sweeper's posture to his attire, underscores this artistic approach.
History & Provenance
Created around 1857, Le Balayeur is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, though specific details of its acquisition history are not provided here.
Context
Emerging during the mid-19th century, the work aligns with the burgeoning Realist movement in France, which sought to honestly portray the lives of common people and the social conditions of the time.
Legacy
While not individually renowned as a landmark piece, Le Balayeur contributes to the broader legacy of Realist art, influencing subsequent movements focused on everyday life and social commentary.
Artist & collection
Artist
Paul Gavarni was the pen name of Sulpice Guillaume Chevalier, a French illustrator, born in Paris.
