Daumier: The Heroism of Modern Life

Honore Daumier (1808 1879) is perhaps best known for his political and social caricatures, precise and witty observations of life in 19th-century France. This authoritative new study provides a long-overdue assessment of his work, bringing together his paintings, sculptures, watercolors, drawings, and lithographs, all of which were greatly admired in his day. Later feted by Van Gogh and Picasso, Daumier s art continues to be appreciated by contemporary artists.
Lavishly illustrated with works from throughout Daumier s career, including the satirical lithographs that made his name, the book 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 and confirm Daumier s unique place in art history.