Who painted The Imaginary Illness?

The Imaginary Illness was painted by Honoré Daumier in 1860.

Where can I see The Imaginary Illness?

The Imaginary Illness is held by Philadelphia Museum of Art.

What movement is The Imaginary Illness?

The Imaginary Illness is associated with Realism.

Artwork

The Imaginary Illness

Honoré Daumier , 1860

The Imaginary Illness is an oil painting by the Realist artist Honoré Daumier. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Imaginary Illness is an oil painting by Honoré Daumier, created in 1860. It is a somber depiction of an elderly man in a state of supposed ill health, held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting shows an elderly man in bed, attended by two concerned figures. The scene is likely inspired by Molière's play 'The Imaginary Invalid', suggesting a commentary on hypochondria or the societal attitudes towards illness.

Technique & Style

Daumier employed chiaroscuro to create a somber atmosphere, with a muted palette dominated by shades of brown and gray. The contrast between light and dark emphasizes the figures and their emotional state.

Context

The painting reflects Daumier's interest in social commentary and the human condition, characteristic of his work as a painter and printmaker.

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.