Ratapoil

model 1851, cast c. 1891 · Sculpture

Particulars

1849
First Participation in the Salon
In 1849 Daumier exhibited at the Salon for the first time, showing the painting "The Miller, His Son, and the Donkey"; from the late 1840s he devoted himself increasingly to painting.
1860
Le Charivari Dropped His Caricatures
After thirty years of continuous work, the popularity of Daumier's caricatures declined, and in 1860 Le Charivari dismissed him from its staff. Years of hardship followed, but also of free time for painting — a period of great productivity and artistic growth.
1865
Settling in Valmondois
After spending the summer of 1865 in Valmondois with Théodore Rousseau, whose health was failing, Daumier soon left Montmartre for good and rented a small cottage in Valmondois, where he lived for the rest of his life.
1878
Major Painting Exhibition at Durand-Ruel
A circle of friends and admirers organized a large exhibition of Daumier's paintings at the Durand-Ruel gallery — the first time the full scope of his painting was shown to the public. It was not a financial success, but the exhibition was warmly received by the public and critics and became a decisive turning point in the recognition of Daumier as a painter.
10 February 1879
Died
13 February 1879 – April 1880 · Burial