Artwork

Un Auteur

Un Auteur, by Paul Gavarni, 1858
Un Auteur, by Paul Gavarni, 1858

Un Auteur 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

Un Auteur, created circa 1858 by Paul Gavarni, is a print housed in The Cleveland Museum of Art. The work depicts a figure in everyday attire, set against a rural backdrop.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, a man dressed in a long coat and top hat, is identified by the title as 'An Author'. He carries a cane and a small, possibly literary, item, with muddy boots suggesting recent outdoor activity. The portrayal implies a focus on the mundane aspects of a writer's life.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose, sketchy lines, the print prioritizes realism over meticulous detail, aligning with the artistic movement's emphasis on ordinary life observations.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 1850s, the print is part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection, though specific acquisition details are not provided here.

Context

Emerging during the Realism movement, Un Auteur reflects the era's interest in depicting everyday life and common individuals, moving away from idealized subjects.

Legacy

While specific influences or notable exhibitions of Un Auteur are not highlighted, it contributes to the broader understanding and appreciation of 19th-century Realist printmaking.

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.