A guest to a horsemeat dinner, from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, March 24, 1865
Original title: A guest to a horsemeat dinner, from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, March 24, 1865
kurzbeschreibung
Three men sit at a table with a served head before them—this motif comes from Honoré Daumier's series 'News of the Day,' published on March 24, 1865, in Le Charivari. The lithograph on newsprint is the second state of two (Delteil). It shows a guest at a horse-meat meal, an unusual repast that caused a stir at the time.
Description
A large, head-like object dominates the table, around which three people sit eating. One man's face registers clear surprise or shock, while the other two remain more composed. Other dishes are visible alongside the strange fare. A plain wall with a window forms the backdrop, letting light into the room. The black-and-white print is horizontal, centering the group at the table.
Context
Daumier published this lithograph in the satirical journal Le Charivari during the reign of Napoleon III. His prints often took up social and political grievances. In mid-19th-century France, horse meat was controversial and associated with poverty and hardship. The series 'News of the Day' commented on current events and social developments.
Impact
The served head as a dish provokes unease. The differing reactions of the diners—from surprise to composure—create a sense of discomfort. The reduced black-and-white rendering draws attention to the central motif and the figures' expressions, emphasizing the unsettling situation.
Technique
Executed as a lithograph on newsprint, the print corresponds to the second state of two according to Delteil's catalogue. This printing process allowed fine lines and graduated shading characteristic of Daumier's style.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)