Paul Gavarni, Impressions of Ménage, Plate 8, Mid-19th Century, Lithograph

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Lithograph on paper, from the Series "Impressions de Ménage", plate 8. An original nineteenth-century lithograph by the celebrated French artist … Read more Lithograph on paper, from the Series "Impressions de Ménage", plate 8. An original nineteenth-century lithograph by the celebrated French artist Paul Gavarni, from his acclaimed satirical series Impressions de Ménage ("Impressions of Married Life"). Published by Chez Panier, Rue du Croissant, Paris, and printed by Aubert & Cie, the series humorously examines the rituals, expectations, and comic tensions of bourgeois domestic life through sharply observed scenes of marriage and family. This plate portrays a husband and wife standing outdoors while a child's toy carriage (cabriolet) lies abandoned nearby, hinting at the source of their disagreement. The wife addresses her husband with playful reproach, while the husband appears awkwardly defensive. The caption reads: "Que t'es donc ennuyeux, Nestor, va! d'avoir donné un cabriolet à ton fils!\. voyons, Monsieur Bibi! on a sonné le dîner, voyons! plus vite que ça!\. prenez votre cabriolet sous votre bras, Monsieur!" A translation is: "You're such a tiresome fellow, Nestor, for giving your son a little carriage! Come along, Monsieur Bibi! They've rung for dinner—hurry up! Pick up your little carriage under your arm, young man!" The humour rests on the father's indulgence being gently mocked. Having spoiled his son with a toy carriage, he is now forced to persuade the child—who refuses to abandon it—that it must be carried to dinner. Gavarni satirises parental inconsistency: the same father who encourages childish whims must now negotiate the consequences of his own generosity. Meanwhile, the wife's amused exasperation reflects the practical voice within the household. Condition: Good overall condition, with a clear, well-preserved impression. The sheet exhibits light age toning, scattered foxing, handling marks, and minor edge wear, including a small area of paper loss or creasing near the upper right margin, consistent with age. The printed image remains crisp and attractive. 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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