Sudden showers in March, in Morocco, from "News of the Day"
Original title: Sudden showers in March, in Morocco, from "News of the Day"
kurzbeschreibung
Honoré Daumier’s lithograph 'Sudden Rain Showers in March, in Morocco,' dated March 16, 1860, presents two figures caught in a sudden downpour. This black-and-white print on newsprint belongs to the series 'Actualités.'
Description
A man in splendidly patterned traditional Moroccan dress stands in the foreground, holding an open umbrella; his attire suggests high rank. Beside him, a second figure—likely a servant or slave—looks up at the umbrella. Oversized drops fall, emphasizing the shower. The layout is lively and draws attention to the main figure, while the background remains bare.
Context
This print was made for the satirical journal 'Le Charivari' as part of the 'Actualités' series. The date March 16, 1860, alludes to the sudden March showers common in France. By introducing a Moroccan ruler, the artist taps into the contemporary interest in North Africa, shaped by the French colonial presence in Algeria.
Impact
The caricature is comic and ironic, thanks to the exaggerated raindrops and the stiff posture of the figures. Black and white with clear lines direct the eye to facial expressions and gestures, which carry the satirical tone.
Technique
Lithography on newsprint—a process typical of Daumier that allowed quick, inexpensive prints. This is the second state of two, indicating later revisions to the printing plate.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)