After an Engraving by Lithographic Artist CHARLES AUBRY (c.1810-1840)

Using a saber to extract a molar seems rather exaggerated even for this time and place of this caricatured etching. However, it provides us with a satirical insight into the tribulations endured by the unfortunate people who were afflicted with dental pathology at that time.

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Aubry, Charles (Saumur, Active c. 1810 - 1840)

Lithography was not invented in France, but it was the French who perfected the medium’s potential as a fine art form during its initial years. Such legendary masters as Delacroix and Gericault led the way yet, between 1810 and 1830, a host of other superb artists were bringing the original lithograph to the forefront. In fact, so many outstanding works were created in this field that the Restoration Salons began holding exhibitions solely in lithography as early as 1817.

Officially, portraits and historical scenes were encouraged. Domestic scenes, such as this example, were not common. Charles Aubry was an early lithographic artist who made his reputation with hunting scenes and military subjects. In 1822 he accepted the post of professor of art at l'Ecole Militaire de Saumur. Listings from the records of the Restoration Salon indicates that Charles Aubry contributed one lithograph to the 1824 exhibition. It is not known which  piece was submitted though.