The artwork, titled “Jean-Auguste Chevandier de Valdrome (1781-1878), Deputy and Peer of France,” was created by the artist Honoré Daumier in 1833. This clay sculpture falls within the Realism art movement and is currently housed in the Musée d’Orsay located in Paris, France.
The artwork is a sculptural representation focused on the figure of Jean-Auguste Chevandier de Valdrome. It is characterized by an expressive and somewhat exaggerated portrayal, which is a hallmark of Honoré Daumier’s style. The subject is depicted with pronounced facial features, notably a prominent nose and a deeply furrowed brow, capturing a sense of character and personality. The heavy use of drapery in the figure’s attire, with detailed folds and textures, reflects the Realist movement’s attention to truthful representation and intricate detail. As a clay medium, the sculpture embodies a tactile quality, emphasizing the physical presence and realism of the depicted form. The piece, through its craftsmanship and artistic expression, offers a window into the historical context and persona of Jean-Auguste Chevandier de Valdrome.
