Artwork

La France se préparant a passer...

La France se préparant a passer..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1869
La France se préparant a passer..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1869

La France se préparant a passer... is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1869 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. La France se préparant a passer.

About this work

Overview

La France se préparant a passer... is a 1869 lithograph by Honoré Daumier, exemplifying his satirical commentary on French society during the mid-19th century.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a serene woman on a platform, surrounded by a crowd of emotionally varied men, likely critiquing social hierarchies or political figures under the Second Empire.

Technique & Style

Executed in a realistic style with meticulous detail, the lithograph on newsprint reflects Daumier's approach to accessible, sharp imagery for a broad audience.

History & Provenance

Created during Daumier's prolific period as a printmaker for publications like *La Caricature* and *Le Charivari*, the work aligns with his frequent caricatures under the July Monarchy and Second Empire.

Context

While often associated with Impressionism and Realism, this work primarily showcases Daumier's role in mid-19th-century satire, targeting the social and political landscape of France.

Legacy

As part of Daumier's extensive satirical oeuvre, *La France se préparant a passer...* contributes to his lasting impact on political caricature and social commentary in art.

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.