Artwork
Au Coin de la Borne
Au Coin de la Borne is a print by the Impressionist artist Paul Gavarni. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Au Coin de la Borne, a print by French artist Paul Gavarni, dates to circa 1858 and is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection. The work depicts a weary, simply dressed man leaning against a stone wall, with a bag over his shoulder, hands in pockets, and holding a pipe or stick while gazing downward.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is a tired, everyday individual, emphasized by worn attire (long coat, cap, heavy bag) and posture. The title and descriptive French text below highlight themes of wear and deterioration, drawing attention to the mundane realities of life.
Technique & Style
While specific technical details of the print are not provided, Gavarni's style often blended nuanced observation of everyday life with empathetic portrayal of common people, characteristic of mid-19th-century Realist tendencies.
History & Provenance
Created around 1858, the print is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, with no detailed provenance (ownership history) provided in the available information.
Context
Au Coin de la Borne reflects the Realist movement's focus on depicting ordinary life and the less fortunate, common in 19th-century French art. The emphasis on wear and tear also touches on the social and economic realities of the time.
Legacy
The work contributes to Gavarni's body of Realist prints, though its specific impact or influence on subsequent art movements is not detailed in the provided information.
Artist & collection
Artist
Paul Gavarni was the pen name of Sulpice Guillaume Chevalier (13 January 1804 – 24 November 1866), a French illustrator, born in Paris.
