“Eleven degrees centigrade! Look at how it makes you look! And this is called the year of grace!,” plate 1 from Vulgarités 1841

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph titled “Eleven degrees centigrade!” sometime in the 19th century. Daumier was a master of social satire, and here he uses the relatively new medium of lithography to comment on the social realities of his time. The print depicts two Parisian figures, likely bourgeois, uncomfortably navigating the cold weather. Through exaggerated postures and facial expressions, Daumier critiques the vanity and pretensions of the middle class, suggesting a disconnect between their self-image and the harsh realities of urban life. The biting caption, juxtaposing the discomfort of the cold with the notion of a "year of grace," adds to the satirical effect. Daumier's work often appeared in satirical journals like "Le Charivari," reflecting the growing importance of print media in shaping public opinion. To fully appreciate Daumier's art, one might delve into publications from the time, exploring the socio-political climate that fueled his sharp observations. By situating this artwork within its original context, we gain a richer understanding of its enduring relevance as a commentary on social behavior.