Un réveil en sursaut c. 19th century

"Un réveil en sursaut" (A Startled Awakening) is a lithograph by Honoré Daumier, a prolific French artist of the 19th century. This satirical work depicts a couple in bed, with the husband seemingly waking from a nightmare. Daumier's use of dark, expressive lines and contrasting light and shadow creates a sense of drama and humor. The caption underneath the artwork further amplifies the humor by suggesting that the husband had a nightmare about having colic. This drawing is a fine example of Daumier’s talent for capturing the everyday absurdities of life in Paris, and his ability to convey emotions through simple visual means.