Artwork

Je crois vous avoir ... prouvé que mon client ...

Je crois vous avoir ... prouvé que mon client ..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1864
Je crois vous avoir ... prouvé que mon client ..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1864

Je crois vous avoir ... prouvé que mon client ... is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

This lithograph shows two men in a courtroom. One stands and waves his arms. The other slumps in his chair, arms crossed tight. Sharp lines and deep shadows make the scene feel intense.

Daumier worked as a cartoonist. He drew this in 1864 to mock unfair trials. The print uses bold strokes to show who’s really in charge.

This style feels like a quick sketch. It’s not fancy—just raw and real. If you like this, check out Daumier, Honoré

Overview

Created in 1864, this lithographic print by Honoré Daumier captures a courtroom confrontation. Two male figures dominate the composition: one stands, arms animated, while the other sits slumped with crossed arms. The stark contrast of light and shadow intensifies the tension of the scene.

Subject & Meaning

The work satirically comments on the legal system, portraying a heated exchange that hints at the imbalance of power in judicial proceedings. By emphasizing the standing figure’s gesturing and the seated figure’s somber posture, Daumery underscores the dynamics of accusation and defense.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithography, the image relies on bold, decisive strokes and sharp linear outlines. Deep chiaroscuro creates dramatic depth, while the overall handling resembles a rapid sketch, lending the piece a raw, immediate quality rather than a polished finish.

History & Provenance

Daumier, known for his work as a caricaturist and social commentator, produced this print amid a period of political unrest in France. It was circulated as part of his series critiquing judicial corruption, reflecting his engagement with contemporary legal controversies.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Honoré Daumier

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.