Executed in plaster 1851; cast in bronze c. 1925
Ratapoil
Honoré DaumierFrench, 1808 - 1879
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.
This record is part of an ongoing effort to share accurate and evolving information. If you notice anything we should improve, we welcome your feedback at [email protected]
Images on this site are shared for educational use. For image rights, permissions, or to learn more about image rights and access, email [email protected]