Entrée en classe du jeune Estancelin c. 19th century

Curator: Here we have Honoré Daumier’s lithograph, dating from the 19th century, entitled “Entrée en classe du jeune Estancelin,” paired, in register form, with what is titled "Sortie de la classe." What springs to mind for you when you first behold this image? Editor: Well, right away, I get a sense of satire, a sharp commentary on, perhaps, the rigidity of schooling. It's all caricature and exaggeration; everyone is either too big or too small, too eager or completely wretched! It certainly pulls no punches. Curator: Indeed! Daumier masterfully uses caricature to expose the social dynamics within the classroom. Notice how the figures are drawn; it is more than simple exaggeration. Look at the poor, entering student, so gangly and elongated versus the crush of plump boys eager to leave. Editor: Absolutely. There's an intentional ugliness, isn’t there? But it’s also incredibly effective. That eager mob reminds me of scenes of the rush for stocks at the Exchange, a physical manifestation of greed and impatience. And note the contrast of their forms to those rigid, identical faces in the gallery of seats—each expression seems so empty. Curator: Symbolism is at play with the way each is designed—especially how the instructor ushering the student to his seat has such sharp angles—even in his long pointer stick! But tell me, does this image invoke more than humor, or does something darker loom? Editor: For me, it's a mixed bag. The humor is definitely there, in the almost grotesque distortion of features. But beneath that, I sense a deeper critique of societal expectations placed upon young minds, or perhaps the absurdity of education in general. The stampede to leave feels awfully telling… almost allegorical. It makes me wonder, what are they running to? Curator: Perhaps they run toward or away from themselves. And for me, this is Daumier’s true gift, taking everyday scenarios and infusing them with profound emotional and cultural weight through the most economic of marks. Editor: That's well said. I started by just smiling at the funny shapes but leaving, I am wondering more about the education these cartooned figures might—or might not—be receiving. The truth may be that Daumier reveals more about what culture values, rather than simply showing children in school.