Artwork
In convénient de tirer les perdreaux ...
In convénient de tirer les perdreaux ... is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This lithograph by Honoré Daumier depicts a casual outdoor gathering centered on the act of hunting partridges. Three figures, dressed in period attire, are shown in motion alongside a dog, while birds take flight above them. The scene conveys a sense of relaxed social activity rather than violent pursuit, emphasizing atmosphere over action.
Subject & Meaning
The print portrays a moment of rural leisure, where hunting serves as a social ritual rather than a deadly endeavor. Daumier focuses on the gestures and relationships among the figures—their postures suggest amusement and camaraderie. The flying birds are not targets but part of the landscape, softening the traditional symbolism of the hunt.
Technique & Style
Daumier employed lithography to achieve fluid, expressive lines and tonal contrasts. His loose, sketch-like handling captures movement and spontaneity, with minimal detail in the background to direct focus toward the figures. The ink washes suggest light and air, enhancing the impression of an open, sunlit field.
History & Provenance
Created during the mid-19th century, this work belongs to Daumier’s series of lithographs published in periodicals, often commenting on contemporary life. Though not part of a major political series, it reflects his interest in everyday scenes of the middle and upper classes. Its origin lies in the vibrant print culture of Parisian journalism at the time.
Context
In 19th-century France, hunting was a popular pastime among the bourgeoisie, often depicted in art as a symbol of status. Daumier, however, subverted this tradition by rendering it with humor and intimacy. His approach aligned with his broader practice of observing social behavior with quiet irony rather than overt satire.
Legacy
This print exemplifies Daumier’s ability to elevate mundane moments through keen observation and expressive technique. While less known than his political caricatures, works like this influenced later artists interested in candid genre scenes. His treatment of leisure activities helped redefine the boundaries of printmaking as a medium for social observation.
Artist & collection
Artist
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.
