Ordre du Lièvre 1832

"Ordre du Lièvre" (Order of the Hare), a satirical document created in 1832 by the artist Sans-Courage, is a humorous critique of aristocracy and cowardice. The document, a parody of official decrees, presents a fictional "King of the Fearful" who bestows the "Order of the Hare" upon a subject who exhibits "unparalleled cowardice" and "astonishing flexibility" to flee. The document's text satirizes the absurdity of power and those who blindly follow it, likely resonating with audiences who saw through the façade of power and privilege. The artwork's small size and detailed handwritten text further emphasize the intimate and critical nature of the piece.