Plate 44: Robert Macaire, Barrister, from 'Caricaturana,' published in Les Robert Macaires
Original title: Plate 44: Robert Macaire, Barrister, from 'Caricaturana,' published in Les Robert Macaires
kurzbeschreibung
Honoré Daumier made this lithograph in 1838, showing a lawyer in court seizing the floor with a sweeping gesture. The sheet belongs to the 'Caricaturana' series published in 'Les Robert Macaires' and targets the crafty advocate Robert Macaire.
Description
A barrister in a dark robe dominates the foreground, one hand raised to speak, his stance forceful. Behind him a judge in official dress and cap has taken his seat, along with another man in similar attire, both following the plea closely. To the left a group of onlookers in assorted coats and headwear listen as well. Books and papers lie on the table before the speaker. French text and captions run along the bottom, giving dialogue or commentary on the scene.
Context
The print appeared in 1838 as part of 'Caricaturana,' published in the satirical journal 'Les Robert Macaires.' Robert Macaire was a popular caricature of the day, used by Daumier and other artists as a symbol of corruption and charlatanism among the bourgeoisie. Known for his political and social satire, Daumier used the series to criticize the justice system and the legal profession in nineteenth-century France.
Impact
Exaggerated faces and the lawyer's theatrical gestures give the sheet its comic, satirical edge. The clear layout keeps the main figure in view and underlines the absurdity of the courtroom.
Technique
For this sheet Daumier used lithography on wove paper, a process he often chose for his caricatures. Its monochrome grey tones and precise linework allowed details to be captured quickly and accurately.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)