Ratapoil

Currently not on view

Ratapoil

Executed in plaster 1851; cast in bronze c. 1925

Honoré Daumier (French, 1808–1879) Bronze cast by the foundry Alexis Rudier, Paris (1874–1952)

Daumier, an artist concerned about the social and political developments of his time, sculpted Ratapoil as a commentary on the rule of Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, president of the Second French Republic from 1848 to 1852 and emperor from 1852 to 1870. With his beaked profile, handlebar mustache, and goatee, Ratapoil here resembles the ruler. However, the figure also symbolizes the men who traveled with Louis-Napoléon to stir up enthusiasm for him and harass his opponents.

Ratapoil also appears in many of Daumier’s prints, but after Louis-Napoléon became Emperor Napoleon III and reintroduced press censorship, Daumier’s images of Ratapoil disappeared.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Ratapoil

Date:

Executed in plaster 1851; cast in bronze c. 1925

Artists:

Honoré Daumier (French, 1808–1879) Bronze cast by the foundry Alexis Rudier, Paris (1874–1952)

Medium:

Bronze

Dimensions:

Height: 17 1/2 inches (44.5 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

The Henry P. McIlhenny Collection in memory of Frances P. McIlhenny, 1986

Accession Number:

1986-26-9

Geography:

Made in France, Europe

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Currently not on view