Laugh Lines: Caricaturing Painting in Nineteenth-Century France

Laugh Lines: Caricaturing Painting in Nineteenth-Century France explores the first major study of Salon caricature, a graphic art criticism that began with lithographs in the 1840s and became essential to Parisian exhibitions. It examines little-known artists and amateurs alongside major figures, revealing a vibrant culture of comedy around fine art in 19th-century France.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 10 March 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Laugh Lines: Caricaturing Painting in Nineteenth-Century France is a groundbreaking exploration of Salon caricature, a unique form of graphic art criticism that emerged in the 19th century. In this artistic practice, press artists created comedic renditions of contemporary paintings and sculptures for publication in popular journals and albums. The roots of Salon caricature can be traced back to a few tentative lithographs in the 1840s, which quickly gained popularity and became an essential feature of Parisian exhibitions. Within a few decades, these caricatures had become an integral part of the illustrated press, offering witty and astute commentary on the works of artists like Édouard Manet.

This comprehensive survey of Salon caricature delves into the works of both well-known and lesser-known graphic artists, as well as unpublished amateurs. It brings together anonymous joketers with the profound essays of Baudelaire, creating a lively dialogue between different artistic voices. Moreover, the study highlights the material qualities of a 10-centime album, juxtaposing it with the most ambitious paintings of the 19th century. Through meticulous archival research, Laugh Lines unearths a wealth of colorful caricatures that have been previously unpublished, shedding light on a vibrant culture of comedy that thrived around fine art and its reception in 19th-century France.

Salon caricature played a significant role in shaping public perception and appreciation of art during this period. By humorously exaggerating and satirizing the visual elements of paintings, caricatures allowed viewers to gain a new perspective on artistic works. They also served as a means of critiquing and commenting on the social and political issues of the time, often using humor to convey complex ideas in a accessible and engaging way.

In conclusion, Laugh Lines: Caricaturing Painting in Nineteenth-Century France is a seminal work that provides a comprehensive and insightful examination of Salon caricature. Through its exploration of the works of both established and unknown artists, as well as its engagement with the broader cultural context of 19th-century France, the study offers a fresh perspective on the role of graphic art in shaping artistic expression and public discourse.

Weight: 696g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350186859