Plate 30: Robert Macaire before his judges, from 'Caricaturana,' published in Les Robert Macaires
Original title: Plate 30: Robert Macaire before his judges, from 'Caricaturana,' published in Les Robert Macaires
kurzbeschreibung
Honoré Daumier’s 1838 lithograph places Robert Macaire at its center: the recurring satirical figure speaks out in a courtroom setting. The print belongs to the 'Caricaturana' series and was executed in black ink on paper.
Description
At the front stands a figure in a dark suit with a white collar, hands raised, upright. Behind him: several people in judges’ robes and hats, as judges and audience. Some spectators watch attentively, others look pensive. Below the scene, lines of text explain the context. Black and white dominate the entire image, and the arrangement feels clear.
Context
The lithograph appeared in 1838 within the 'Caricaturana' series, which Daumier published together with the writer Charles Philipon. Philipon had devised the figure of Robert Macaire: a satirical embodiment of the unscrupulous businessman and swindler. Daumier used it to criticize social abuses and the justice system of the July Monarchy. The series was published in the satirical magazine 'Le Charivari'.
Impact
The caricature immediately comes alive for the viewer—through clear linework and the expressive gestures of the main figure. Defendant and judge face each other, creating an ironic tension that underscores the critique of the justice system. The restrained color directs attention to the action and the expressions of the figures.
Technique
The print was executed as a lithograph on wove paper, in the second state of two (Delteil). This process allows fine lines and shading, as are typical of caricature. Daumier used it to print quick, expressive sketches that circulated widely in magazines.
AI-generated description text
Source: Metropolitan Museum of Art · Public Domain (CC0 1.0)