← Honoré Daumier

They told us to come to this region and we would find some magnificent trees, from 'The landscape painters,' published in Le Charivari, December 17, 1864

Original title: They told us to come to this region and we would find some magnificent trees, from 'The landscape painters,' published in Le Charivari, December 17, 1864

Artist

Honoré Daumier

Date

December 17, 1864

Medium

Lithograph on newsprint; second state of two (Delteil)

Dimensions

Image: 9 7/16 × 8 1/4 in. (23.9 × 20.9 cm) Sheet: 11 11/16 × 11 5/8 in. (29.7 × 29.5 cm)

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1922

kurzbeschreibung

Honoré Daumier made this lithograph in 1864 as part of his series 'The Landscape Painters.' It shows two men in a sparse wood, exchanging views on the less-than-inspiring prospect before them. This black-and-white print is the second of two states (Delteil).

Description

On a forest path lined with thin, bare trees stand two men. The one on the left wears a jacket and trousers, holds a long stick, and has a curved object slung over his shoulder. The one on the right is equipped with a hat and a backpack and also leans on a stick. The black-and-white image relies on caricatural faces and expressive body language. A printed French dialogue runs along the bottom edge.

Context

The lithograph was published on 17 December 1864 in the satirical magazine Le Charivari, as part of the series 'The Landscape Painters.' In it, Daumier engaged with the landscape painting of his day and its protagonists, who sought ideal motifs and yet met with reality. The series belongs to his later graphic works, which combine social criticism and artistic commentary.

Impact

The exaggerated figures and the meager tree setting give the print an ironic, debunking edge. The contrast between the expected splendor of the trees and the barren reality produces a humorous yet thoughtful effect. Clear lines and the men's lively expressions define the lithograph.

Technique

This print used lithography on newsprint: drawing with greasy chalk on a stone, then printing. Daumier used the process for his satirical works, which appeared in large editions in magazines. The present version is the second state of two, suggesting that the printing plate was reworked.

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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)