Description
The first six-string guitars appeared simultaneously in Naples and Paris in the 1770s, and by the end of the 19th century the so-called Romantic guitar played a central role in the popular music of the French capital. Daumier’s drawing reflects this interest in street singers and carnival performers. The agitated, almost frenetic tangle of fine lines drawn in pen and ink imbues the figure with life, so that his voice and instrument seem to vibrate with emotion.
Provenance
Lousada (not stamped, not in Lugt) (according to Maison 1968, p. 115, no. 340). Croal Thompson, Barbizon House (not stamped, not in Lugt) (according to Maison 1958, p. 349). T.O. Falk (not stamped, not in Lugt) (according to Maison 1968, p. 115, no. 340). Private Collection, Oxford (according to Maison 1968, p. 115, no. 340). [Hobart and Maclean]
Accession Number
1991.59.a
Medium
pen and black ink over charcoal
Dimensions
Sheet: 33.9 x 21.5 cm (13 3/8 x 8 7/16 in.)
Classification
Drawing
Credit Line
The Severance and Greta Millikin Purchase Fund
