Eh! Bien comment me trouves-tu dans mon nouvel uniforme ... c. 19th century

Curator: This lithograph by Honoré Daumier is titled "Eh! Bien comment me trouves-tu dans mon nouvel uniforme…" which roughly translates to, "Well, how do you find me in my new uniform?" It’s thought to have been made around the 19th century. It's quite the pointed social commentary. What strikes you first about it? Editor: It’s wonderfully absurd, isn't it? The man's bulkiness emphasized by that formal, almost comical uniform! There is also something off about his glasses that are a bit too high on his nose and create an impression of him looking down at everyone, both literally and figuratively. It almost feels cruel, but gently so. Curator: Absolutely. Daumier often skewered the bourgeoisie in his work, and this print is no exception. He had such a keen eye for capturing the vanity and self-importance of the rising middle class, didn't he? Note the placement of the child—seemingly also in a uniform—and the woman observing this display. What do you think their roles are? Editor: I think she looks resigned, maybe a little weary. The boy seems burdened. Both may be reflecting the father's grandstanding. He seems oblivious. I see a tension in the contrast between the static portrait on the wall and this family vignette, it feels purposeful. Curator: Yes! It's a layering of social performances. The man's "new uniform," perhaps signifying newfound status or ambition, becomes the subject of satire through Daumier's skilled hand. The artist really exposes this man for what he is! A blowhard! He has just purchased or inherited this silly getup and now wants praise for it. Editor: And the print as a medium… it's interesting that such cutting social critique was disseminated so widely through prints, accessible to a relatively broad audience. Think about who would be enjoying this mockery, and what circles it could make its way into... It holds a rebellious energy, for sure. Curator: Exactly. Daumier used the accessibility of print to challenge power structures and offer a critical reflection on Parisian society. Well, this lithograph gives us plenty to think about concerning class, aspiration, and the power of visual satire. Editor: A delicious little snapshot of societal pretensions, captured with such wit! Definitely makes you consider the many uniforms we don in our own lives, doesn't it?