Who painted The Nightmare?

The Nightmare was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1832.

Where can I see The Nightmare?

The Nightmare is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Nightmare?

The Nightmare is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

The Nightmare

Honoré Daumier , 1832

The Nightmare is a print by the Romanticist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1832 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Daumier drew it for a satirical magazine during a time when France was ruled by a king many disliked.

A woman lies flat on her back, eyes shut, while a tiny demon crouches on her chest. The room is dark except for a sliver of light on her face and nightgown.

This isn’t a dream—it’s a political jab. Daumier drew it for a satirical magazine during a time when France was ruled by a king many disliked. The demon stands for the heavy, unfair control people felt. The woman’s helpless pose makes it clear: the joke’s on the powerful.

If you like this kind of sharp, funny art, look up *Honoré Daumier (French, 1808–1879)*.

Overview

The Nightmare is a print published in La Caricature (No. 69) as plate 139, created by Honoré Daumier. The work depicts a somber scene with a woman lying on her back, eyes closed, and a small demon perched on her chest, illuminated by a thin slice of light.

Subject & Meaning

The composition conveys a sense of oppression, with the demon symbolizing the perceived heavy-handed and unfair rule of the French monarchy during Daumier's time. The woman's helpless pose underscores the artist's critique of those in power.

Technique & Style

Daumier's use of stark contrast between light and dark emphasizes the ominous atmosphere, while the simple yet effective composition highlights his skill in conveying complex themes through concise visual elements.

History & Provenance

Published in La Caricature, a satirical journal, during a period of discontent with the French monarchy, The Nightmare reflects Daumier's engagement with political commentary through his art.

Context

Created amidst widespread dissatisfaction with the ruling king, this print exemplifies Daumier's contribution to the satirical discourse of his era, using subtle yet potent imagery to critique authority.

Legacy

The Nightmare showcases Daumier's influence in sharp, politically charged art, encouraging viewers to explore more of his works for similar blends of satire and visual storytelling.

Artist & collection

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.