"Cel...lebrated painting jury..." 1839

Editor: Here we have Honoré Daumier's lithograph, "Cel...lebrated painting jury..." It seems to depict a comically critical group of figures inspecting artwork. The mood is definitely satirical. How do you interpret this work within its historical context? Curator: Daumier often used his art to critique the bourgeoisie and the art establishment. This lithograph lampoons the art juries of his time, highlighting their perceived incompetence and biases. Notice the figures' professions. What does it say about art criticism? Editor: It suggests that the jurors are approaching art from completely the wrong perspective! Not from a place of artistry. Curator: Precisely. Daumier is commenting on the politics of art, and who gets to decide what is deemed "good" or "bad," and the public role of these institutions. Editor: I see now. The image reflects the power dynamics within the art world and Daumier's critique of the elite controlling artistic taste. Curator: Yes, the lithograph serves as a reminder of how social and political forces shape the reception and validation of art.