The artwork, titled “Pygmalion,” is a lithograph created by Honore Daumier in 1842. It is part of the series “Ancient History” and belongs to the Realism art movement, specifically within the genre of caricature. This distinguished piece is currently housed in the Bibliothèque nationale de France (BnF) in Paris, France.
In “Pygmalion,” Daumier delivers a satirical depiction inspired by the mythical sculptor Pygmalion, who fell in love with a statue he had carved. The lithograph portrays the sculptor fascinated by the partially completed statue, which appears to come to life, extending its hand towards him. The background reveals various sculpted heads and body parts, emphasizing the artistic setting. The caricatural style echoes Daumier’s criticism and humor, capturing the interplay between artist and creation in a markedly exaggerated manner.
