The artwork titled “Montalembert” by Honore Daumier, created in 1850, is a notable piece within the Realism art movement. Measuring 34.9 x 23.7 cm, this caricature is housed at Château de Compiègne in Compiègne, France.
The artwork depicts a satirical portrayal of a man, likely Charles de Montalembert, who is presented in prayer or contemplation with an exaggerated expression. Surrounding him are three grotesque, human-headed birds, adding a fantastical element to the caricature. The background consists of simple, swirling lines, giving the impression that the central figure is elevated, perhaps suggesting a kind of parodic sanctity. The figure wears a long robe and is encircled by a halo, reinforcing the parody of saintliness. The composition and detail align with the styles typical of Daumier’s work, known for its incisive social and political commentary.
