“- It really shouldn't be allowed to return from Bercy in a state like this.... an established man like you.... I am so unhappy, my God! - What's wrong?...after all, I like the water.... am I not allowed to like the water anymore?,” plate 4 from Les Canotiers Parisiens 1843

This lithograph, "- It really shouldn't be allowed to return from Bercy in a state like this," was created by Honoré Daumier using a greasy crayon on lithographic stone, a process that democratized image-making in 19th century France. Daumier was a master of this medium, using it for social commentary published in newspapers. Here, he captures a domestic scene with humor and pathos. The immediacy of the lithographic crayon allowed him to convey the disheveled state of the returning "canotier," or boatman, and the wife's despair. The lithograph's strength lies in its accessibility. It’s a multiple, meant for mass consumption. The narrative speaks to the tensions of urban life, leisure, and the social expectations of the bourgeoisie. Daumier’s choice of lithography underscores his commitment to engaging with the everyday realities of his time, blurring the lines between fine art and popular culture.