Finally! Here comes the train, from 'People on the train,' published in Le Charivari, February 1, 1865
Original title: Finally! Here comes the train, from 'People on the train,' published in Le Charivari, February 1, 1865
kurzbeschreibung
Honoré Daumier's lithograph 'Endlich! Da kommt der Zug' (1865) shows a group of travellers waiting on a platform, their eyes fixed on the approaching train. The print belongs to the series 'Physionomies prises au chemin de fer' and pokes fun at modern travel habits. It was printed on newsprint, second state of two (Delteil).
Description
In the foreground, a man in a cap and coat and a woman in a long coat and apron look toward the train, which crosses the image from left to right. Behind them, other figures wait. The whole arrangement stays black and white, with a horizontal flow. Light falls from the upper right, casting shadows on the left side of the figures. Caricatural exaggerations shape the faces and the expressive postures.
Context
This lithograph appeared on 1 February 1865 in the satirical journal Le Charivari, known for its social criticism. The series 'Physionomies prises au chemin de fer' was devoted to the new experience of railway travel in the 19th century. Lithographs on newsprint matched the mass production of caricatures at the time.
Impact
Humorous and observant, the print captures the impatience and excitement of the waiting travellers. The caricature highlights the comedy of everyday life and brings the modern technology of train travel to contemporaries—entertaining and accessible.
Technique
Lithography on newsprint, a process Daumier often used for his satirical prints. Finely graded lines and shading distinguish the second state of two (Delteil) and show the possibilities of the printing technique. The newsprint emphasises the fleeting character of the caricature.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)