Embrassons nous

Art Historical Context

**Embrassons-nous** (Let's Embrace), a lively 1867 lithograph byé Daumier, the artist's signature satirical flair. Daumier, a leading French caricaturist of the 19th century was renowned for his incisive commentary on society during the Second Empire under Napoleon. Working primarily in lithography—a revolutionary printing technique that allowed for affordable mass production of images—he created over 4,000 prints, making sharp social critiques accessible to a wide audience. This piece, housed in the National Gallery of Art's Rosenwald Collection, exemplifies Daumier's realist style, blending exaggeration with keen observation. The title evokes a moment of exuberant connection, likely poking fun at bourgeois manners or public displays of affection amid France's politically charged era. His bold, fluid lines and dynamic compositions convey emotion and irony, influencing later graphic artists and political cartoonists. Visitors will appreciate how Daumier's work bridged fine art and journalism, offering a window into 19th-century French life—humorous, critical, and profoundly human. A testament to lithography's power, it remains a vibrant highlight in the museum's print collection.

About the Artist

Honoré Daumier · 1810–1879

Honoré-Victorin Daumier (1808-1879) was a prolific French printmaker, caricaturist, painter, and sculptor whose works offered incisive commentary on the social and political life of 19th-century France. Known as the 'Michelangelo of Caricature,' Daumier produced over 4,000 lithographs, 500 paintings, 1,000 drawings, and 100 sculptures during his lifetime. His biting political satire led to his imp...