In Spain: the frogs asking for a king, from "News of the day"
Original title: In Spain: the frogs asking for a king, from "News of the day"
kurzbeschreibung
Made in 1868 as a contribution to the series 'News of the Day,' Daumier's lithograph presents a scene in which frogs dressed in human clothing demand a king. The satirical sheet was executed as a lithograph on newsprint.
Description
At the top, a figure in royal robes rests with bare feet on a cloud. Below, four frogs in human attire are in motion—two dance or celebrate, the other two appear agitated. Bushes and trees form the landscape backdrop. The image remains black and white, with even lighting and no pronounced shadows.
Context
The print appeared on December 3, 1868, in the French satirical journal 'Le Charivari,' as part of the series 'News of the Day.' It was prompted by the political situation in Spain after the expulsion of Queen Isabella II in September 1868. Daumier used the Aesopian fable of the frogs who wish for a king as a caricature of the Spanish succession crisis of his time.
Impact
Political critique and humorous animal allegory merge here. The contrast between the lofty figure on the cloud and the earthbound frogs creates an ironic edge. Through Daumier's draftsmanship, the frogs gain an almost human expressiveness that reinforces the satirical message.
Technique
The sheet was printed as a lithograph on newsprint, in the second state of two (according to Delteil). This printing technique allowed fine lines and shading suitable for reproduction in newspapers. The image measures 25.5 × 20.6 cm, and the sheet measures 29.9 × 29.6 cm.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)