The New Cinderella 1866

Curator: Honoré Daumier's print, "The New Cinderella," presents a satirical take on European politics. It's a rather stark image, isn't it? Editor: Indeed. The exaggerated features and frenzied energy create a sense of impending chaos. The sky looks quite stormy and dark, too. Curator: It’s a commentary on Austria's role in European power struggles, likely around the time of Italian unification. Notice how Austria is labeled on Cinderella's dress. Editor: The slipper seems to be the shape of Italy! And the figure rushing to catch Cinderella looks like it might be Germany. The story of Cinderella is twisted into something much darker here. Curator: Precisely. Daumier uses familiar imagery to critique political ambition and instability. This print originally appeared in "Actualités" so its message was very topical. Editor: Knowing this political context changes my reading, transforming what seemed like mere caricature into quite a potent statement. Curator: Absolutely. Daumier used popular imagery to engage his audience. Editor: A potent use of symbolism to unpack the anxieties of the era!