CH. DE LAM....

Trustman, Benjamin A., Trustman, Julia M. · 1832

This lithograph is a portrait of Charles de Lameth. At the bottom on the banderole is written "To migrate is not deserting". Charles Malo François, Comte de Lameth (1757-1832) participated in the American war for independence, and became a high ranking officer under the Restoration in France. He was elected as conservative Deputy from 1829-1832. Nowadays one would describe him as a wryneck who had perfected the art of adjusting to any political changes. Therefore Daumier composed his coat of arms symbolically with a cap, a Lilly, a cross and a pear. This lithograph is one of a series of 5 based on previously produced terracotta sculptures. During the Ancient Regime, LAMETH participated in the American Revolution and was wounded twice at Yorktown. After his return to France and under the influence of his American sojourn, he proposed abolition of Peer-privileges in 1789. He was exiled to Hamburg in 1792 and returned only during the Restoration and the July Monarchy. It was LAMETH who was the author of the expression:" to emigrate does not mean to desert!" He held several ministerial positions, after having conveniently changed his political views and supported the monarchic system.