Parisian Amateurs Taking Advantage of Rossini's Stay in Italy, which Lets Them Perform a New 'William Tell' 1852

Curator: Daumier's lithograph, "Parisian Amateurs Taking Advantage of Rossini's Stay in Italy, which Lets Them Perform a New 'William Tell'," certainly looks… spirited. Editor: Indeed. The scratchy line work and stark contrasts convey the amateurish quality while also hinting at social commentary. It's about the means and act of production. Curator: Yes, the context is that Rossini was taking time off, and these wealthy amateurs felt entitled to mangle his work. The political undertones of class and cultural appropriation are hard to miss. Editor: And how the print medium democratizes access to, and criticism of, high art, allowing for broader participation, even if somewhat inept. It's about who gets to create and consume. Curator: Ultimately, Daumier uses his material to critique the bourgeoisie's self-importance, doesn’t he? Editor: It seems the material makes the message here.