Paul Gavarni

Paul Gavarni, born Sulpice Guillaume Chevalier in 1804, was a prominent French artist associated with the Realism movement. Renowned for his lithographs and illustrations, Gavarni captured the nuances of Parisian society with a keen eye for detail and social commentary. His work was widely published in periodicals such as "Le Charivari" and "L'Illustration," where he depicted the everyday lives and fashions of the bourgeoisie and bohemian classes. Gavarni's influence extended beyond France, impacting the development of caricature and social satire in visual art. Despite facing financial difficulties later in life, he continued to produce significant works until his death in 1866. His legacy endures through his contributions to the visual documentation of 19th-century French society.