J'vous dis que vous avez dérangé la limite ... c. 19th century

This lithograph was made by Honoré Daumier, likely sometime in the mid-19th century. It is made by drawing on a flat stone with a greasy crayon, then treating the stone so that ink adheres only to the drawn lines. Here, the material's capacity for conveying tones and textures results in a vivid scene. The lithographic process allowed for the quick reproduction of images, contributing to the rise of mass media. Daumier uses this to his advantage, creating accessible commentary on social issues. Note the contrast between the two figures: One farmer’s refined clothing against the other’s simple garb. In this print, Daumier captures a dispute between two landowners, probably members of different social classes, highlighting tensions and struggles around land ownership and social mobility. The text at the bottom translates roughly to: "I tell you that you have disturbed the boundary and that you have made it advance on my field!" "I tell you no, and I will maintain before all the courts that it is from my father and even my grandfather that I hold being bounded as I am! Ah! but!.." Daumier's choice of lithography wasn't just about convenience; it was a deliberate engagement with the means of production. His prints offered a voice to the common person.