Honoré Daumier (French, 1808-1879)

Available Works

Known chiefly as a political and social satirist, Honoré Daumier used the printmaking process of lithography, still relatively new at the time, to contribute cartoons and caricatures to French news weeklies. He brilliantly exposed the character of his subjects by infusing everyday gestures, postures, and dialogue with his unmistakable wit. A gifted painter and sculptor, Daumier chose the steady income of commercial illustration work over a career in "high" art. It has been estimated that he produced over 4,000 lithographs. Today, Daumier's powerful and humorous illustrations stand as critical historical reminders as well as an enduring testament to the passion for social justice that fueled his work.

Cultural and Political Satire links: William Hogarth, Thomas Rowlandson, British Caricature Prints