Artwork
Pierre-Napoléon Bonaparte
Pierre-Napoléon Bonaparte is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1849 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This 1849 lithograph by Honoré Daumier portrays Pierre-Napoléon Bonaparte in a satirical light, characteristic of Daumier's work as a caricaturist for French publications like *La Caricature* and *Le Charivari*. The piece reflects Daumier's republican sympathies and his practice of critiquing the monarchy and aristocracy through his art.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Pierre-Napoléon Bonaparte, is depicted in an exaggerated manner: oversized head, thick mustache, long coat, cane, and a notably different leg. These distortions are meant to evoke humor and satire rather than realism, commenting on the political figure's presence and influence within the French social and political landscape.
Technique & Style
Executed in lithography, the print features a prominent figure set against faint, suggestive background lines implying a watching crowd. The style is decidedly caricatural, with exaggerated physical features (notably the large head and cane) emphasizing the satirical intent.
History & Provenance
Created in 1849, this lithograph falls within Daumier's prolific period of caricaturing French political and social elites. The exact provenance is not detailed here, but its creation aligns with Daumier's contributions to *La Caricature* and *Le Charivari*, outlets for his republican and democratic viewpoints.
Context
The work is situated between the Revolution of 1830 and the fall of the Second French Empire in 1870, a time of significant political upheaval in France. Daumier's satire reflects the tensions and criticisms of the monarchy and aristocracy during this period.
Legacy
As part of Daumier's extensive satirical oeuvre, *Pierre-Napoléon Bonaparte* contributes to the artist's legacy as a keen observer and critic of 19th-century French political life, influencing the development of caricature and social commentary in art.
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.
