Artwork

Des Mères de Famille!

Des Mères de Famille!, by Paul Gavarni, 1848
Des Mères de Famille!, by Paul Gavarni, 1848

Des Mères de Famille! is a print by the Romanticist artist Paul Gavarni. It dates from 1848 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

The man on the left wears a dark coat with a high collar, while the man on the right has a lighter suit, a beard, and a cane tucked under his arm.

This sketch shows two men walking side by side, their backs to us. The man on the left wears a dark coat with a high collar, while the man on the right has a lighter suit, a beard, and a cane tucked under his arm. The lines are loose and quick, like a hurried sketch—background figures blur into the edges.

The text at the bottom is in French, hinting this might be a funny or critical scene from everyday life. The artist’s name, Gavarni, is signed in the corner.

Want to see more of his sharp, playful drawings? Check out Paul Gavarni (French, 1804–1866).

Overview

Des Mères de Famille! is a print by Paul Gavarni, created in 1848, held at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts two men walking together, their backs to the viewer, with distinct attire and accessories. The accompanying French text at the bottom suggests a humorous or satirical scene from everyday life.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by loose, quick lines, with background figures fading into the edges, giving it a spontaneous, sketch-like quality.

History & Provenance

Gavarni, a French artist active in the 19th century, signed his name in the corner of the print, which is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Paul Gavarni

Artist

Paul Gavarni

Paul Gavarni was the pen name of Sulpice Guillaume Chevalier (13 January 1804 – 24 November 1866), a French illustrator, born in Paris.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.