Art Collections Online
The Heavy Burden
DAUMIER, Honore (1808 - 1879)
Media: oil on panel
Size: 39.7 x 32.2 cm
Acquired: 1952; Bequest; Gwendoline Davies
Accession Number: NMW A 3891
Collection: The Davies Sisters Collection
‘The Heavy Burden’ refers not simply to the bundle carried by the woman but also to the child at her side, as if they are all she possesses. The pair’s desperate appearance and the sombre mood are typical of the social commentary Daumier often conveyed in his works. He made a number of changes to this image. Originally the figures were viewed from behind.
Comments - (5)
Update: Collections Assistant Gareth Thomas responded with the following
"Daumier did make several versions of this subject matter and would often revisit compositions that were of interest to him multiple times. Sarah Symons who wrote Daumier 2004, noted that the subject may have been close to his heart as “this woman and child spilled over into five paintings, a sculptured figure and some five known drawings.” In particular the work that we have on display here is a watercolour on paper that has been reworked in oils which perhaps illustrates this point. One notable difference between the version on display here and that at the Hermitage Collection is that our lady figure is wearing a headscarf."
I hope this solves the mystery, Lyn, and thanks for getting in touch.
Sara
Dear Lyn Kelly, thanks for your intriguing enquiry! I'll pass it onto a colleague in the art department and will update this comment when they respond.
Thanks
Many thanks
Lyn ( Kelly)
Thank you for your interest in Amgueddfa Cymru
Daumier...the heavy burden