Who painted A travers les ateliers?

A travers les ateliers was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1862.

Where can I see A travers les ateliers?

A travers les ateliers is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is A travers les ateliers?

A travers les ateliers is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

A travers les ateliers

Honoré Daumier , 1862

A travers les ateliers is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1862 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

A travers les ateliers is a 1862 lithograph by Honoré Daumier, characteristic of his use of printmaking to observe and critique aspects of French society.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic artist’s studio with six individuals gathered around a partially completed painting, evoking a sense of collaborative creativity and varied reactions among the group. The scene offers a glimpse into the inner workings of 19th-century artistic studios.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithograph, the work features exaggerated facial expressions and loose, expressive lines, conveying a sense of spontaneity and humor, hallmarks of Daumier’s satirical approach.

History & Provenance

Created during a period of French governance shifts, A travers les ateliers reflects Daumier’s republican democratic leanings, consistent with his satirical contributions to publications like La Caricature and Le Charivari.

Context

The title, translating to 'Through the studios,' suggests an authentic portrayal of collaborative artistic practices of the time, though presented through Daumier’s characteristic satirical lens.

Artist & collection

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.