Caricature of Jules Didier (“Butterfly Man”)

The Caricature of Jules Didier (“Butterfly Man”) by Claude Monet French, 1840-1926, offers a rare glimpse into the artist's formative years before the emergence of Impressionism. Executed between 1857 and 1860, this early drawing utilizes black and white chalks applied skillfully to blue laid paper, a traditional combination that provides immediate contrast and vibrancy. This work dates from a critical period when the young Monet was mastering draughtsmanship and developing the sharp observational skills that would define his career.

The subject, Jules Didier, was known locally as the “Butterfly Man.” Caricature was a popular and often politically charged form of social commentary in 19th-century France. Although Monet is most famous for his monumental landscape paintings, these early satirical works, often depicting local figures or friends, showcase his talent for bold, decisive line work and composition. The energetic application of white chalk highlights against the dark background and the distinctive blue paper underscores the exaggerated features and satirical energy inherent in the drawing.

This crucial drawing resides in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, providing important context for understanding Monet’s trajectory from a satirist of the local scene to one of the most revolutionary figures in modern art. It exemplifies the vibrant drawing culture present in mid-19th century France. For researchers and enthusiasts worldwide, works like Caricature of Jules Didier (“Butterfly Man”) are often available digitally, and high-quality prints derived from the public domain images broaden access to the early, often overlooked, career of this master artist.