Old lithograph Conjugal Mores Daumier caricature 19th century France

AFW - Antique France Worldwide

Description

This antique lithograph illustrates a satirical scene entitled "Mœurs conjugales" (Conjugal Manners), typical of the work of the artist Honoré Daumier, whose signature appears in the bottom left. The black and white drawing depicts a finely dressed couple, the man wearing a top hat and a dark cloak, the woman sporting a voluminous headdress and a patterned dress. To the right, a young boy in uniform, wearing a large shako, completes the scene with a caricatured posture. The sketched background suggests a few silhouettes and landscape elements, accentuating the depth effect without distracting from the main group.

The framing highlights the classical composition of the 19th century, with fine lines and mastery of chiaroscuro. The printed text below the image, partially legible, anchors the scene in a humorous and critical context, characteristic of the social satire of the period. The whole is surrounded by a simple black line, typical of period prints, and mounted on a thick, slightly ivory cardboard support.

The lithograph displays Daumier's characteristic finesse of line and richness of expression, with a marked contrast between the dark clothes and the delicate patterns of the woman's dress. The scene, capturing the spirit of bourgeois manners and customs, testifies to keen observation and subtle humor. The clothing style and graphic treatment confirm a dating to the mid-19th century, with no mention of added color, while preserving the appearance of a period print.

In the bottom right, the handwritten mention "Coll. Sion-Bruck" indicates an old collector's fund, reinforcing the documentary interest of the piece. The margins show a slight patina and some discreet traces of wear, visible in the photo, without altering the readability of the image or text. The overall visual condition remains very satisfactory for an antique print.

The typography, theme, and visible signature identify this work as an authentic lithographed caricature, created for the illustrated press or French satirical publications of the 19th century, a format much appreciated for wall decoration or iconographic study.

Condition

Used item sold as is. Slight traces of wear and patina visible on the margins, with no apparent missing parts or tears on the visible side. The print and inscriptions remain clear and legible.

Did you know? Honoré Daumier (1808-1879) is considered one of the greatest French caricaturists and lithographers of the 19th century. He collaborated with major satirical newspapers such as Le Charivari, where he published numerous series on social and political customs, including the "Mœurs conjugales" series.

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Keywords: Daumier lithograph, antique caricature, 19th century print, satirical engraving, French art, illustrated press, humorous drawing, vintage wall decoration, artwork France, lithograph print, satire art, Daumier print France