The Charivari. Forced to draw a new map of an area now used for manoeuvres, which used to be the location of the 'Temple of Peace,' from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, November 26, 1867
Original title: The Charivari. Forced to draw a new map of an area now used for manoeuvres, which used to be the location of the "Temple of Peace," from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, November 26, 1867
kurzbeschreibung
Unlike many contemporary caricatures that focus on individuals, this 1867 lithograph by Honoré Daumier pairs a grotesque figure with a wide landscape. It appeared in the series 'News of the Day' in Le Charivari and shows someone drawing a map of an area once considered a 'Temple of Peace' and now used for military maneuvers. The print is a lithograph on newsprint, third state of three (Delteil).
Description
A figure in an ornate, grotesque headpiece and long robe sits high on a rock, looking down at a book or portfolio. The layout is asymmetrical: the figure occupies the left side, while to the right a flat plain with scattered buildings or ruins stretches out. The contrast between the elevated position and the vast, empty landscape shapes the arrangement. At the bottom edge, text elements with title and publisher information are inserted.
Context
The lithograph was made in November 1867 and published in the satirical journal Le Charivari. Daumier thus took up the transformation of a peaceful place into a military training ground, pointing to the political tensions and armament under Napoleon III. The 'Temple of Peace' may refer to the Palais de l'Industrie, opened in 1867, or similar buildings that were repurposed for military use. The print belongs to a series of caricatures with which Daumier critically followed the politics of his time for Le Charivari.
Impact
The grotesque figure, in its helplessness, seems almost comic and at the same time creates an ironic, contemplative mood. The contrast between the figure's elevated position and the flat, almost empty landscape below underscores the absurdity of the situation. The monochrome grays and the exaggerated portrayal strengthen the satirical character of the print.
Technique
Lithography on newsprint was used to capture the detailed figure and landscape, a common method in the 19th century for caricatures in satirical journals. It allowed fine lines and graduated shading. The third state indicates several revisions of the print, necessary for publication in the newspaper.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)