The Execution of Maximilian

Edouard Manet French

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Napoléon III installed the Hapsburg emperor Maximilian to power in Mexico in 1864, an endeavor that quickly failed, ending with the execution of Maximilian by firing squad. News of the execution quickly reached Paris, and Manet, an ardent Republican, set to work on a series of works depicting the event. Inspired by photographs and newspaper reports, Manet’s composition, with its contrasting areas of light and dark, enhances the scene’s dramatic impact. Ivins noted that Manet "saw everything broadly and simply as befitted a temperament that habitually found ease in splotches of tone, and as often as possible evaded the discomfort and concentration required to focus attention upon a line." Meant for wide distribution, the lithograph was suppressed by the state.

The Execution of Maximilian, Edouard Manet (French, Paris 1832–1883 Paris), Lithograph on chine collé; first state of three

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The Execution of Maximilian, Edouard Manet (French, Paris 1832–1883 Paris), Lithograph on chine collé; first state of three
The Execution of Maximilian, Edouard Manet (French, Paris 1832–1883 Paris), Lithograph on chine collé; first state of three

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