L'ogre et le petit poucet c. 19th century

"L'ogre et le petit Poucet" is a satirical lithograph by Honoré Daumier from the 19th century. The print depicts a scene from the popular French fairytale "Hop o' My Thumb" with a large ogre, seemingly Napoleon III, sleeping soundly while a much smaller figure, representing a civilian, attempts to steal a sword from his belt. The lithograph is a commentary on the political climate of France at the time, with Daumier highlighting the perceived incompetence and vulnerability of the emperor. The artist uses exaggeration and caricature to achieve a humorous and biting critique. Daumier was known for his politically charged art that frequently used satire and social commentary.