Antique lithograph poster Daumier – The Anatomy Lesson, political satire

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique poster features a satirical black and white lithograph titled "La leçon d’anatomie" (The Anatomy Lesson). The finely detailed scene depicts a group of men, presumably dignitaries or politicians, gathered around an anatomy table. In the center, a figure in an apron seems to be directing the assembly's attention to the outstretched body of a woman, whose drapery bears the inscription "CONSTITUTION." The caricatured facial expressions, solemn demeanor, and overall atmosphere are typical of Honoré Daumier's incisive and ironic style, a master of 19th-century satire.

At the bottom, the title "La leçon d’anatomie" is clearly printed. To the left is the address "A. de Vresse, r. Rivoli, 55.", indicating the publisher, while to the right is "Lith. Walter Frères, Paris, r. Pte. 28", specifying the lithographic workshop. The composition is centered on the anatomy table, with a dense visual construction and a stark contrast between the dark costumes of the figures and the light shroud of the body.

The drawing, both precise and expressive, highlights the gestures of the protagonists: some observe with gravity, others seem to discuss or comment on the scene. The whole exudes a dark humor characteristic of political caricature during the Second Empire. The graphic style, lettering, and layout details confirm an period production, likely around the 1860s, consistent with the handwritten date visible at the top of the sheet ("August 21, 1869").

The sheet exhibits a slight patina of age, particularly on the edges, which attests to its age and authenticity. No coloring is visible, the work being exclusively in black and white. No major defects or tears appear on the visible side of the poster. The legibility of all main inscriptions is good.

This document constitutes a remarkable historical and artistic testimony, representative of the visual satire in the 19th-century French illustrated press. It is a choice piece for collectors of old prints, caricatures, or French political history.

Condition

Used poster, sold as is. Shows an aged patina, with slightly marked edges. No major tears or stains visible on the presented side.

Did you know? Honoré Daumier (1808-1879) was one of the greatest French caricaturists of the 19th century. He produced hundreds of satirical lithographs for the press, denouncing politics, justice, and the morals of his time. His works, frequently published in "Le Charivari," often earned Daumier censorship and even imprisonment, so strong was their social and political impact.

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Keywords: Daumier lithograph, 19th century satirical poster, political caricature, antique engraving, constitution satire, illustrated press, original French drawing, retro history poster, antique satirical print, French caricature, Daumier lithograph, satire française