Paul Gavarni, Impressions of Ménage, Plate 4, Mid-19th Century, Lithograph

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Lithograph on paper from the seires "Impressions de Ménage" (plate 18). Lithograph on paper, from the series "Impressions de Ménage". … Read more Lithograph on paper from the seires "Impressions de Ménage" (plate 18). Lithograph on paper, from the series "Impressions de Ménage". 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 Panier, Rue du Croissant, Paris, and printed by Aubert & Cie, this celebrated series presents a witty and perceptive commentary on the conventions and realities of bourgeois marriage under the French Civil Code. This humorous composition depicts a husband and wife immersed together in water, likely during an outdoor excursion or therapeutic bath. The wife stands holding a pole and dressed in her bonnet, while only the husband's head and top hat remain visible above the water. Beneath the image appears a quotation from Article 215 of the French Civil Code: "La femme est obligée d'habiter avec le mari et de le suivre partout où il jugera à propos de résider." ("The wife is obliged to live with her husband and to follow him wherever he chooses to reside.") Gavarni transforms this solemn legal requirement into visual comedy, interpreting the law literally by showing the wife dutifully accompanying her husband even into the water. The juxtaposition of legal text with absurd imagery exemplifies the artist's sophisticated brand of satire, gently mocking both marital expectations and contemporary social conventions. Executed with remarkable economy of line and subtle tonal modelling, the composition demonstrates Gavarni's mastery of lithography. The broad, tranquil landscape contrasts with the comic incongruity of the couple's situation, creating a refined balance between picturesque scenery and social humour. Condition: Good overall condition, with a clear, well-preserved impression. The sheet displays light age toning, scattered foxing, minor handling wear, and a small tear with associated creasing at the upper right margin, not affecting the principal image. The printed composition remains strong and visually 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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