Publisher's Synopsis
Honoré Daumier (1808-1879) is perhaps best known for his political and social caricatures: precise and witty observations about life in nineteenth-century France. This authoritative new study provides a long-overdue assessment of his entire oeuvre, bringing together his paintings, sculptures, watercolours, drawings and lithographs, all of which were greatly admired in his lifetime. Fêted by Van Gogh and Picasso, Daumier's art continues to be appreciated to this day; it has influenced several contemporary artists, including Paula Rego and Peter Doig, the latter of whom has contributed directly to this volume. Lavishly illustrated with works from throughout Daumier's career, including the satirical lithographs that made his name,Daumier: Visions of Paris focuses on the innovative paintings and drawings that formed his more private output. These lesser-known works reveal the artist's ambitious range of subject-matter, from Cervantes's Don Quixote to the complete spectrum of Parisian street society. This book will introduce the new scholar to Daumier, but also provide those who appreciate his work with new material, confirming Daumier's pre-eminence among nineteenth-century French artists.
