Une famille mélomane ... c. 19th century

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph, “Une famille mélomane …”, which translates to “A music-loving family…”, in 19th-century France. Daumier, working during a period of significant social change, was deeply interested in the daily lives of the French Bourgeoisie. He frequently satirized their customs and pretensions. In this image, we see a family rehearsing for a concert, presumably to be held at the home of a M. Coquardeau. The exaggerated expressions and grotesque features of the singers hint at a critique of amateur musical performances, which were a common form of entertainment among the middle classes. Daumier's work provides valuable insights into the cultural and social landscape of 19th-century France. By examining sources like newspapers, journals, and literature from the period, we can better understand the context in which this image was created and appreciate its commentary on the social norms of the time. This lithograph serves as a reminder that art is a product of its time, shaped by the prevailing social, cultural, and institutional forces.