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: 34. 2cm
width: 25. 4cm
dimensions - image:
height: 27. 4cm
width: 17. 5cm
dimensions - mounting:
height: 50cm
width: 40cm
description:
colored lithograph on wove paper. Marks, inscriptions, hallmarks:
title of the work - above the image: "conjugal ladder"
legend - under the image: "2nd descending rung / indifference"
author inscription - under the image on the left: "wattier delt. " / under the image on the right: "lith by g. Engelmann" / under the caption on the right: "sazerac and duval publisher 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 presents the rising tension between the two spouses with “indifference”. In fact, the bride and groom have their backs turned to each other. The man, leaning against a fireplace which recalls the decor of the print entitled “the favorable welcome” from the same series, is immersed in reading his newspaper – he is dressed as a dandy. His wife is absorbed in a red-headed parakeet, which she carries on her hand. With her cheek, she brushes against the bird’s head. A drapery is casually placed on the sofa where she sits, leaning against the armrest. His other hand holds a mirror. A white scarf is tied around her neck, falling over her long blue dress tightened at the waist. This theme, dear to balzac, is found in one of his first writings: the physiology of marriage. “indifference is coming; she lies down on a couch, no longer thinking of lowering the dress that desire once lifted so chastely and so eagerly. She casts a glance without shame or immodesty at the nuptial bed; and, if she wants something, it's green fruit to awaken the numb taste buds that line her jaded palate. »
themes / subjects / places represented:
social subject, morals, couple, bird, fireplace, sofa, mirror, reading
mode of acquisition: purchase
institution: maison de balzac
inventory number: bal98. 202. Date: En 1824.
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