Plate 47: Stockbroker at the close of the day, from 'Caricaturana,' published in Les Robert Macaires
Original title: Plate 47: Stockbroker at the close of the day, from 'Caricaturana,' published in Les Robert Macaires
kurzbeschreibung
Honoré Daumier made this lithograph in 1838, showing a stockbroker at the close of his working day in an office. The sheet belongs to the Caricaturana series and appeared in Les Robert Macaires. It is the third state of three (Delteil).
Description
A stockbroker in a dark suit stands with a cane before a desk, addressing a seated man who is writing in a book or document. The seated figure, also dressed in dark clothes, looks worried or tired. Shelves and cabinets packed with papers and books fill the rear of the room. Below the figures runs a French dialogue text. The layout is clear, the figures sharply outlined, and the light falls evenly.
Context
Made in Paris in 1838, this lithograph dates from a period of political and social upheaval after the July Revolution of 1830. Daumier created Caricaturana as a satirical commentary on the bourgeoisie and the financial market. The figure of Robert Macaire, a well-known stage character, served as the model for his critique of speculation and profiteering. The print was published in the journal Les Robert Macaires, which took a satirical look at social ills.
Impact
The exaggerated facial features and the contrasting postures of the two men make the caricature both funny and critical. The monochrome lithograph gives the image a sober, documentary atmosphere that supports its social critique. The dialogue at the bottom sharpens the satire and prompts reflection on the situation shown.
Technique
Lithography on wove paper, a printing process based on the repulsion of grease and water. Daumier used the technique to produce fine lines and shading that give the figures volume. The print is the third state of three, indicating that the plate was reworked.
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Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)