An examination of the relationship between the materials and techniques used for works on paper, canvas and panel by Honoré Daumier

Abstract

This paper describes the findings of a technical study of the materials and techniques used by Honore Daumier for works on canvas, panel and paper, with special regard to the similarity between techniques used by the artist for all three supports. Thirteen paintings (five on canvas and eight on panel) and seven works on paper were examined using a range of techniques to characterize materials and methods used by the artist to create these works. Our findings suggest that materials and methods of application traditionally associated with works on paper were used by Daumier also for his works on canvas and panel supports. Materials include those usually associated with drawings, such as charcoal, lithographic crayon, and thin washes of water- and oil-based paint and ink, applied with quill and reed pens.