Les nouveaux Icares c. 19th century

Curator: Looking at Honoré Daumier’s lithograph, "Les Nouveaux Icares," circa 1848, I’m immediately struck by its frantic energy. What are your initial thoughts? Editor: There’s a raw immediacy to the lithographic process that underscores the turbulent scene. The density of the shading gives a sense of chaos. I’m curious about the socio-political context for Daumier’s choice of lithography as his medium for caricature. Curator: This work emerged during a period of significant political upheaval in France. The title itself, "The New Icaruses," provides a direct commentary on the events surrounding the February 1848 Revolution, using the fall of Icarus as a metaphor for the fall of political figures. Daumier was known for critiquing bourgeois society. Editor: I see the figures now—falling from grace amidst scattered feathers, much like Icarus after the sun melted his wax wings. Daumier cleverly used the easily reproducible lithograph to disseminate his commentary widely and cheaply to working-class audiences. I also notice how much value this added for social criticism and commentary on political downfalls during the time. Curator: Precisely. Daumier masterfully employs caricature to emphasize the arrogance and ultimately the failure of those in power during this period. Consider the implications of him portraying this event using lithography— it underscores ideas around distribution and audience accessibility, too. The figures' exaggerated features underscore a deeper commentary about social power and inequality during the era. Editor: And lithography, with its dependence on readily available materials, highlights the very act of image-making. The relatively inexpensive material makes the work accessible to a mass audience which directly echoes his criticism of wealth, class, and systems of power within society at the time. The use of cheaper materials created access for the public. Curator: Exactly! Through the medium itself, Daumier's lithograph operates as a form of social activism. It allowed commentary on structures that reinforced power, like the failed leadership which mirrors Icarus. I wonder if contemporary artists are taking lessons from the production methods to address similar socio-political themes in our present climate. Editor: Perhaps this helps me to understand more about his own means of production, the work is just a perfect balance between message and delivery. Thank you!