Artwork

Quand on a brulé son dernier chevalet!

Quand on a brulé son dernier chevalet!, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1845
Quand on a brulé son dernier chevalet!, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1845

Quand on a brulé son dernier chevalet! is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1845 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Quand on a brûlé son dernier chevalet!

About this work

Overview

Quand on a brûlé son dernier chevalet! is a 1845 lithograph by Honoré Daumier, capturing a moment of artistic struggle within a cluttered, dimly lit room. The scene features two men, one contemplative and the other expressive, set amidst sparse, makeshift surroundings.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph conveys the challenges of artistic labor under societal pressures, a theme reflective of Daumier's broader critique of authority and advocacy for republican democratic values during this period.

Technique & Style

Daumier employed quick, sketchy lines in this lithograph to convey movement and emotion, characteristic of his expressive and satirical approach. The lithographic technique, involving drawing on stone, suited his dynamic and spontaneous style.

History & Provenance

Created in 1845, this work aligns with Daumier's contributions to satirical publications like *La Caricature* and *Le Charivari*, showcasing his engagement with social commentary through art.

Context

This piece is situated within Daumier's oeuvre of sharp social and political commentary, reflecting the artistic and political climate of mid-19th century France, where republican ideals and critiques of authority were prevalent.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of *Quand on a brûlé son dernier chevalet!* are not highlighted, it contributes to Daumier's recognized influence in satirical art and printmaking, reflecting themes that remain relevant in the discourse on artistic struggle and societal critique.

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.