CHAMPFLEURY (Jules Husson, dit) (1821-1889) - Lot 301

CHAMPFLEURY (Jules Husson, dit) (1821-1889) Novelist, art critic, historian of caricature, leader of realism. Lithographed portrait of Champfleury, by Hadol, lithograph from the Hommes d'aujourd'hui series, late 19th century. An amusing full-length portrait of Champfleury, wearing his famous round glasses and characteristic moustache. The writer appears in a deliberately caricatured pose, holding the insignia of the Legion of Honor in his hand, while a small statuette is placed at his side. This depiction, typical of the satirical spirit of the illustrated press of the Second Empire and early Third Republic, testifies to the fame acquired by the author of Chien-Caillou and Les Excentriques. The work is signed in the plate by Hadol, one of the most sought-after caricaturists of his time, and a contributor to numerous humoristic publications. These portraits, which were very popular at the time, are now a living gallery of the great literary, artistic and political figures of the 19th century. Commentary Champfleury was not only a novelist, but also a key player in the rediscovery of popular imagery, French earthenware and caricature. His interest in Daumier, Gavarni and popular art explains his singular place in French cultural history. This portrait-charge is a particularly evocative iconographic testimony to his fame. Condition Some marginal foxing on the support. Beautiful, well-contrasted proof. Presentation under old mount.