Artwork

Souvenirs du Bal Chicard: Pistolet

Souvenirs du Bal Chicard:  Pistolet, by Paul Gavarni, 1843
Souvenirs du Bal Chicard:  Pistolet, by Paul Gavarni, 1843

Souvenirs du Bal Chicard: Pistolet is a print by the Romanticist artist Paul Gavarni. It dates from 1843 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Souvenirs du Bal Chicard: Pistolet is a print created by French artist Paul Gavarni in 1843, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts a woman in a playful, posed manner, wearing informal attire (loose white shirt, dark shorts with striped cuffs, and stockings) with her hair pulled back. One arm is raised, and the other holds a small, unidentified object near her face, potentially alluding to a pistol as suggested by the title 'Pistolet'.

Technique & Style

The composition focuses attention on the subject through a minimalist background featuring only text and a faint shadow, emphasizing the woman's pose and expression.

History & Provenance

Created in 1843 by Paul Gavarni, the print is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, with specific acquisition details not provided.

Context

Part of Gavarni's 'Souvenirs du Bal Chicard' series, this print reflects his observation of contemporary social life, possibly capturing the spirit of a specific ball or gathering.

Legacy

As part of a recognized collection, 'Pistolet' contributes to the understanding of 19th-century French printmaking and Gavarni's contribution to depicting everyday life and fashion of his time.

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.