A 1st Performance. The Man in the Worst Seat. "This piece seems to me to be well written, but for me the production leaves something to be desired...at least as far as I can judge." c. 19th century

Editor: This lithograph by Honoré Daumier, titled "A 1st Performance," captures a rather crowded theater scene. The perspective is interesting, almost claustrophobic. What strikes you most about the composition of this image? Curator: The artist employs a masterful use of line and form to convey depth and social commentary. Note how the figures are rendered with varying degrees of detail, guiding the viewer's eye. It's a study in tonal variation, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Absolutely, the contrast draws you in! I hadn't considered how deliberately that was constructed. Curator: Indeed. The artist uses formal elements to create a visual hierarchy. An interesting formal approach to a social subject. Editor: I'll definitely look at lithographs with a fresh perspective now.