Artwork

Trente secondes de station

Trente secondes de station, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1843
Trente secondes de station, by Honoré Daumier, ink, 1843

Trente secondes de station is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1843 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Trente secondes de station is a lithograph created by Honoré Daumier in 1843, exemplifying his role as a prolific printmaker, sculptor, and painter known for socially conscious works.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph captures a chaotic train station scene, conveying urgency and disorder. This reflects Daumier's commentary on the frenetic pace of modern life, characteristic of his socially aware and often satirical approach.

Technique & Style

Daumier employed bold lines and expressive shading in the lithograph, generating a dynamic sense of energy and depth within the crowded, bustling environment of the station.

History & Provenance

Produced in 1843, this work aligns with Daumier's period of frequent contributions to satirical publications like La Caricature and Le Charivari, though its specific provenance details are not provided here.

Context

Aligned with Daumier's republican and democratic beliefs, the work critiques the societal upheavals of his time, though it does not directly target the monarchy, aristocracy, or clergy as seen in other works.

Legacy

While not explicitly linked to Romanticism here, Trente secondes de station contributes to Daumier's legacy as a keen observer of 19th-century social life, influencing future artists in depicting everyday, modern themes.

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.