Author(s):
wattier, émile charles (paris, 17–11–1800 - paris, 22–11–1868), designer-lithographer
engelmann, godefroy (mulhouse, 17–08–1788 - paris, 25–04–1839), engraver
other title: the conjugal ladder (title of the series)
production date: in 1824
dating in century: 19th century
type(s) of object(s): graphic arts, print
name(s): print
materials and techniques: lithography, vellum paper
dimensions - artwork:
height: 33. 8cm
width: 25. 4cm
dimensions - image:
height: 26. 5cm
width: 18. 6cm
dimensions - mounting:
height: 50cm
width: 40cm
description:
lithograph on wove paper. Marks, inscriptions, hallmarks:
title of the work - "the marital ladder / 5th ascending ladder / the dream of happiness"
inscription regarding the author - " wattier delt / lith. De g. Engelmann"
registration concerning the test - "sazerac and duval editor passage de l'opéra staircase a"
iconographic description:
emile wattier suggests following the evolution of a couple, by establishing two series of eight illustrations – i. Illusions, ii. The realities - where each corresponds to a level, either ascending or descending, of a stage in the lives of the two lovers. Here, the artist depicts the first emotions of the two lovers in “the dream of happiness”. The setting is rural, as evidenced by the grassy mound where the young girl sits, her lover half lying at her feet. She is dressed in a pale blue dress; a freshly picked rose, symbol of love, is slipped into her belt. Her gloved arms are delicately placed on the back and arm of her companion, towards whom she leans her face. The young man, clasping her arm, raises a delighted face towards his beloved and gazes into hers. He wears white pants, patent leather shoes, a waistcoat and a frock coat. The young couple forms the harmonious picture of a moment of intimate complicity. This theme, dear to balzac, is found in one of his first writings: the physiology of marriage. “-farewell, sir. I owe you a great deal of pleasure; but, i paid you with a beautiful dream!. She said, looking at me, with incredible finesse. But goodbye. And forever. »
themes / subjects / places represented:
subject of society, morals, couple, rose
mode of acquisition: purchase
institution: maison de balzac
inventory number: bal1998. 196. Date: En 1824.
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