Paul Gavarni, Impressions of Ménage, Plate 29, Mid-19th Century, Lithograph

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Lithograph on paper from the Series "Impressions de Ménage" (plate 29). An original nineteenth-century lithograph by the celebrated French artist … Read more Lithograph on paper from the Series "Impressions de Ménage" (plate 29). 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, the series presents a humorous yet perceptive examination of marriage, domestic life, and bourgeois leisure in nineteenth-century France. This lively outdoor scene depicts a husband and wife bathing together in a river, their heads just visible above the water beneath the shade of overhanging trees. The accompanying caption reads: "Fichu désagréable de Beauminet, va ! qui vous mouille tout !" ("That tiresome Beauminet! He splashes water all over you!") The joke lies in the playful irritation expressed during what should be a peaceful outing. Gavarni gently mocks the small annoyances that inevitably arise even during moments of recreation, demonstrating how married life is filled as much with affectionate teasing as with romance. The informal bathing scene was itself mildly comic for contemporary audiences, contrasting respectable bourgeois manners with the carefree pleasures of the countryside. Executed with rich tonal contrasts and expressive, painterly lithographic technique, the composition combines an atmospheric landscape with subtle characterisation. The surrounding trees and tranquil water create a serene setting that heightens the humour of the couple's trivial disagreement, exemplifying Gavarni's remarkable ability to balance elegance, observation, and wit. Good overall condition, with a clear, well-preserved impression. The sheet displays light age toning, scattered foxing, faint handling creases, and minor edge wear consistent with age. The printed image retains rich tonal quality and strong visual appeal. 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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