Paul Gavarni, The Walls Have Ears, Mid-19th Century, Lithograph

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Lithograph on paper, from the Series "Impressions de Ménage", plate 36. An original nineteenth-century lithograph by the celebrated French artist … Read more Lithograph on paper, from the Series "Impressions de Ménage", plate 36. An original nineteenth-century lithograph by the celebrated French artist Paul Gavarni, from his renowned satirical series Impressions de Ménage ("Impressions of Married Life"). Published by Chez Aubert, Place de la Bourse, Paris, and printed by Aubert & Cie, the series humorously examines the everyday complexities of marriage and domestic life through Gavarni's perceptive observation of human character. This plate, entitled Les murs ont des oreilles ("The Walls Have Ears"), depicts two men engaged in an apparently confidential conversation outside a house. One gentleman, dressed in a tall top hat and long coat, leans in closely, speaking in a hushed tone while resting a hand on the other's chest. The younger man listens with a wary expression, glancing outward as if conscious that someone may be watching. In the partially open doorway behind them, the faint outline of a face discreetly peers around the doorframe, silently confirming the truth of the title. The familiar French proverb, "Les murs ont des oreilles" ("The walls have ears"), warns that private conversations are seldom as private as one imagines. Gavarni transforms this commonplace saying into an elegant visual joke: while the speakers believe themselves alone, an unseen observer is already overhearing every word. The humour lies not in exaggerated action, but in the subtle irony of human indiscretion and misplaced confidence. Good overall condition, with a clear, well-preserved impression. The sheet displays light age toning, scattered foxing, faint vertical fold lines, and minor surface soiling consistent with age. There is slight wear and occasional spotting within the margins, while the lithographic image retains strong tonal contrast and crisp detail. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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