Henri-Alfred DARJOU (1832 – 1874) - The Antique Dealer

Henri-Alfred DARJOU (1832 – 1874)
The Antique Dealer

Ink, pencil and wash on paper
21 x 18.4 cm

Signed lower right "aD"

Provenance
Private collection, Paris

This captivating work is attributed to Henri-Alfred Darjou, a French artist born in 1832 and deceased in 1874. Although he is less known than the leading figures of caricature of his time, Darjou nonetheless left an indelible mark in the field of humorous and satirical illustration.

In this drawing titled "The Antique Dealer", created with a combination of ink, pencil, and wash on paper, we observe a lively and expressive scene. Darjou uses his mastery of line and nuance to capture a moment of exchange, even confrontation, between two characters: an antiquarian who is passionate, almost theatrical in his presentation of an object, and a client whose posture and expression betray a mix of skepticism and curiosity.

Darjou's caricatures were often imbued with a biting humor, critical of the society of his time. He managed to capture the essence of his subjects with precision and exaggeration that enhanced the comedic or satirical message. In "The Antique Dealer", this intention is felt, making the work not only a visual pleasure but also a social commentary.

Despite his talent, Darjou remains an artist to be rediscovered, and his works, such as this one, are gems for discerning collectors and enthusiasts of ancient art eager to delve into the history of caricature.