Masked Man using a Lantern to Collect Discarded Pamphlets by a Tombstone, from "Le Charivari" 1825 - 1835

This lithograph, created between 1825 and 1835 by the French artist Benard, depicts a masked man using a lantern to collect discarded pamphlets by a tombstone. The image, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, exemplifies the satirical and social commentary prevalent in 19th-century French art, particularly in the journal "Le Charivari". The scene suggests an exploration of social classes, anonymity, and the circulation of information. Benard's detailed engraving captures the shadowy, atmospheric setting, highlighting the stark contrast between the masked figure and the discarded pamphlets. The artwork provides a glimpse into the daily life and societal anxieties of the time, engaging viewers in a reflection on the power of anonymity and the dissemination of ideas.