HONORE DE BALZAC

(1799-1832)

Resin bust. H = 32 cm

After publishing several “romans noirs” under diverse pseudonyms, the first novel signed Honoré de Balzac (The Chouans) appears in 1829.

Beginning in 1832, Balzac narrates social history via three works. The Study of Habits and Morals, The Study of Philosophy and Analytical Studies. In 1841, while preparing an edition of his complete works, Balzac decides to regroup the ensemble under the title of the Human Comedy. In addition, he enriches the existing works with new novels in order to give a complete view of contemporary society. As one of the most important novelists of his century, he is often referred to as the founder of social realism.

Balzac describes a society haunted by the power of money and living in the shadow of  Napoleon. His work becomes a fresco of France at the dawn of the Modern Age.