In Clichy, from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, April 11, 1865
Original title: In Clichy, from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, April 11, 1865
kurzbeschreibung
Honoré Daumier's lithograph 'In Clichy' from 1865 places the viewer in a bare room with two men. The print belongs to the series 'News of the day' and appeared on April 11, 1865, in Le Charivari. The scene likely takes place in a clinic or prison and shows an encounter between the two figures.
Description
Two men in long shirts stand facing each other in a room, with wooden poles visible behind them. The figure on the left has narrow, stern features, while the one on the right appears rounder and friendlier, smiling. Their posture suggests a conversation that feels tense or confrontational. Below is a text box with the heading 'ACTUALITÉS' and the page number '246'.
Context
Daumier created this print for the satirical magazine Le Charivari, where he regularly published political and social caricatures. 'In Clichy' refers to the Paris prison of Clichy, where debtors were held. The artist thus took up a social issue that was publicly debated during the Second Empire. The series 'News of the day' lampooned current events and grievances.
Impact
The scene feels immediate and gripping through its spare means and clear lines. The confrontation of the two figures builds a tension that prompts reflection on the social situation. The contrast in their facial features emphasizes their different characters and strengthens the narrative effect.
Technique
In lithography, Daumier drew the motif with greasy chalk on a stone, from which it was then printed on paper. This print is in the second state of two (Delteil) and was printed on newsprint, as was customary for mass distribution in Le Charivari. Finest lines and shading demonstrate Daumier's confident handling of the lithographic process.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)