Artwork

Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant...

Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1838
Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant..., by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1838

Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant... is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1838 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant.

About this work

Overview

Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant... is an 1838 lithograph by Honoré Daumier, a French artist renowned for his critical social and political commentary through various mediums. This print exemplifies his satirical approach during a time of political turmoil in France.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a tense, dramatic scene of a formally dressed man seated and gazing up at a woman leaning over him, both surrounded by onlookers. The specific subject references 'Le Chevalier des Adrets,' suggesting a commentary on amorous affairs possibly intertwined with social critique, reflecting Daumier's republican and democratic sympathies.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithograph, the piece features bold lines and expressive facial expressions, characteristic of Daumier's ability to convey emotional depth. While often associated with broader 19th-century artistic movements, this work's dramatic intensity aligns with certain aspects of Romanticism, though Daumier's primary focus was on social commentary rather than purely aesthetic expression.

History & Provenance

Created in 1838, this lithograph was part of Daumier's output for publications like *La Caricature* and *Le Charivari*, outlets for his sharp critiques of the French monarchy, aristocracy, and clergy during a period of political upheaval.

Context

The work is set against the backdrop of ongoing political instability in France, with Daumier using satire to advocate for republican and democratic ideals, targeting the entrenched powers of the time.

Legacy

As part of Daumier's prolific satirical output, *Le Chevalier des Adrets est l'amant...* contributes to his legacy as a pioneering figure in political caricature, influencing future generations of artists and satirists with its potent blend of social commentary and artistic expression.

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.