What a shame that I am not allowed go hunting, from 'News of the day,' published in "Le Charivari"
Original title: What a shame that I am not allowed go hunting, from 'News of the day,' published in "Le Charivari"
kurzbeschreibung
A uniformed man stands with arms crossed in the foreground while behind him a hunter swings a weapon. Honoré Daumier drew this satirical lithograph in 1867 for the series 'News of the day', published in the French paper 'Le Charivari'.
Description
In front, a soldier in a cap and jacket-like uniform, arms crossed, gaze lowered thoughtfully. Behind him, a second man raises a weapon and aims at him. A barren landscape, a few birds in the sky, all in black and white. The layout thrives on the contrast between the motionless posture and the threatening gesture.
Context
On September 7, 1867, 'Le Charivari' published the print. Daumier used his series 'News of the day' to comment on daily events and politics in France. The passion of the nobility and military for hunting was a common motif of caricature in the second half of the 19th century.
Impact
Exaggerated facial features and the tense juxtaposition of the figures create comedy and irony. The quiet resignation of the uniformed man meets the lively movement of the hunter — therein lies the absurdity of the situation. Few means suffice to sharpen the satirical point.
Technique
Lithograph on newsprint — a process typical of Daumier that allowed quick and inexpensive prints. Present here is the second state of two (Delteil), which suggests a later reworking of the plate. The technique enables fine lines and gradations that benefit the caricature.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)