Argument irrésistible c. 19th century

This print, titled "Argument irrésistible" was made by Honoré Daumier, using lithography. It's a process reliant on the knowledge of chemical reactions, calling for the mastery of specialized skills to prepare and print from a flat stone. The print's distinctive appearance comes from Daumier's handling of the greasy lithographic crayon. See how he uses bold strokes to define the figures, contrasting areas of deep shadow with highlights to create a dramatic effect. Lithography allowed for relatively quick reproduction and distribution of images. The image shows two men in suits sitting at a table; this made Daumier's work accessible to a broad public, beyond the elite circles of traditional art patronage. It also made art more responsive to current events and popular tastes. Daumier's social critique is embedded in the very process of his artmaking. He used a commercial printing technique to address themes of labor, class, and political corruption. This challenges traditional notions of fine art as separate from everyday life.