The Author’s Husband
Honore Daumier (1808-79), The Bluestocking’s Husband, plate 46 from the series Moeurs Conjugales, published in 1842 in Le Charivari, and in the Album Moeurs Conjugales in 1843; an impression from the album, sur blanc (without the letterpress verso and on a quality wove paper); Daumier Register 669, second state (of 3). In excellent condition (tiny repaired tear bottom edge), 9.3 x 7.6 inches.
A fine impression.
Note: By the late 1500s, the fashion had spread to Paris where the termbas bleu(bas, stocking;bleu, blue) emerged to describe women with literary aspirations
From the Daumier Register:
Original Text:
LE MARI DU BAS BLEU.
Monsieur, ma femme est inspiree depuis ce matin: impossible de la voir; je suis comme vous voyez oblige de prodiguer mes soins au dernier ouvrage, que nous avons fait en collaboration!
Translation:
THE BLUESTOCKING’S HUSBAND.
Monsieur, my wife has been inspired since this morning: it is impossible to see her. As you can see, I have to give my full attention to the fruit of our most recent collaboration!