Exercises of the Prussian Hercules: Will he or won't he be able to lift it up?
Original title: Exercises of the Prussian Hercules: Will he or won't he be able to lift it up?, from 'News of the day,' published in "Le Charivari"
kurzbeschreibung
A prince buried under the weight of newspapers: Honoré Daumier's 1866 lithograph caricatures a royal feat of strength. The print belongs to the 'News of the day' series and appeared in 'Le Charivari' — a prime example of Daumier's political satire.
Description
A princely figure lies on the ground, vainly struggling to lift a pyramid-shaped weight of newspapers. Several onlookers, including men in uniform, watch the effort. Above the scene stretches a curtain-like banner. Black and white, with even light and no harsh shadows; the style is caricatural, with exaggerated proportions and a satirical undertone.
Context
The caricature was made during the reign of Napoleon III, when Prussia under Otto von Bismarck was growing stronger. The 'Prussian Hercules' refers to King Wilhelm I, who here as Hercules attempts to lift an excessive burden. The print was published in 'Le Charivari', a journal known for political caricature.
Impact
The prince's exaggerated posture and the massive weight create comedy that also alludes to Prussian ambitions. The arrangement feels dynamic, and the eye fastens on the figure's obvious inability to manage the load.
Technique
Lithograph on newsprint, third state of three (Delteil). The lithographic process allowed fine lines and shading, which were used for the caricature. At 23.1 × 21.2 cm, the format is compact and suited to magazine publication.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)