Ennui

Art Historical Context

Created in 1829 by British caricaturist Robert Seymour and published by Thomas McLean, *Ennui* is a hand-colored lithograph that captures the quiet discontent of early 19th-century domestic life. At just over 10 by 14 inches, the print was designed for wide circulation, allowing middle-class audiences to enjoy witty commentary from the comfort of their own homes. Lithography, still a relatively new medium at the time, enabled artists to produce fluid, expressive lines that translated beautifully when tinted by hand with delicate watercolors. The work belongs to the rich tradition of British satirical prints, using everyday scenes—here featuring a man and woman seated on a couch—to poke fun at social boredom and emotional distance. Seymour’s sharp eye for human folly made him one of the era’s most popular illustrators, and this piece reflects the period’s growing interest in psychological states and the subtle tensions within marriage and leisure. Today, *Ennui* offers modern viewers a charming window into Regency-era humor while showcasing the technical artistry of early lithography. Its presence in the Metropolitan Museum’s collection highlights how these seemingly lighthearted prints served as both entertainment and subtle social critique.

About the Artist

Robert Seymour|Thomas McLean (British|British) · 1798 |1788 –1836 |1875

British, Somerset 1798–1836 London|British, 1788–1875