Mariage chinois c. 19th century

Honoré Daumier made this lithograph, “Mariage Chinois,” as part of his series, "Voyage en Chine". Through caricature, Daumier’s work provides insight into 19th-century European perceptions of China. Here, we see a highly critical view of Chinese marriage practices. The figures are rendered with exaggerated features that reinforce stereotypes. The contrast between the figures might suggest a commentary on gender roles and expectations within marriage. Daumier’s caricatures are not neutral observations; they reflect the colonial attitudes of the time. These images perpetuate cultural biases and contribute to the dehumanization of the “other.” They underscore the power dynamics inherent in cross-cultural representation, revealing more about the representer than the represented. How does this image make you feel about the role of satire in shaping public opinion?