Marie-Louise-Charlotte Philippine Pairie c. 19th century

Curator: Let's turn our attention to this lithograph by Honoré Daumier, titled "Marie-Louise-Charlotte Philippine Pairie." Editor: It's a rather unflattering depiction, isn't it? A woman overflowing her chair, clutching coins. I immediately sense greed and indolence. Curator: Indeed. Daumier often critiqued the bourgeoisie. Note the bags labeled "Rent" and "Actions"—clear indicators of her class and the means of their wealth accumulation. Editor: And those coins, spilling from her hand. They speak of a moral decay, a society obsessed with material gain. The hat plumes feel like a grotesque parody of aristocracy. Curator: Precisely. Daumier used lithography—a medium accessible to a wide audience—as a tool for social commentary, exposing the underbelly of Parisian society. The printing process made the image repeatable, and easily disseminated. Editor: A powerful image, then. It's fascinating how Daumier uses symbols to convey such a potent message about wealth and its corrupting influence. Curator: Absolutely. Considering the materials and processes gives us insight into how the image circulated, but also how Daumier challenged those in power.