Mr. Arlépaire.., plate 280 from Célébrités de la Caricature 1833

This lithograph of Mr. Arlépaire is one of a series called Célébrités de la Caricature, produced by Honoré Daumier in France during the 19th century. The image is more than just a portrait; it's a commentary on the social status and character of its subject. Daumier exaggerates Arlépaire's features and posture, using visual cues to critique his importance within French society. Note the way Arlépaire is presented, his corpulence and fastidiousness emphasized. Daumier worked for the illustrated satirical journal, Le Charivari, which used caricature as a tool for social and political critique. His art often reflected the turbulence of French society, marked by class divisions and political upheaval. To fully understand Daumier's work, scholars consult publications like Le Charivari to grasp the original context of these images. Art is never created in a vacuum; it's a product of its time, reflecting the social and institutional forces at play.