Rifolard ouvre le bal ... c. 19th century

Curator: This lithograph is by Honoré Daumier, a print titled "Rifolard ouvre le bal…", made in the 19th century. The title translates roughly to “Rifolard opens the ball…”, referring to the main figure starting a dance. Editor: What immediately strikes me is the movement conveyed through simple lines, almost scribbled, to capture this single figure's grand entrance. His figure appears inflated, humorously gesturing, mid-step. Curator: Daumier used lithography extensively for social and political commentary in newspapers. Here, the series "Les Banqueteurs," hints at a larger critique of Parisian society, especially its bourgeoisie under the July Monarchy and the Second Empire. Editor: Focusing on technique, look at how Daumier suggests volume with hatching—concentrated lines for shadow and lighter areas for highlights. Notice also, the exaggeration; how this central figure commands attention. Curator: Indeed, exaggeration was key to Daumier's caricatures. Through the exaggerated gestures and expressions of individuals like Rifolard, he questioned the values, behaviours, and political shenanigans of the era, making his work more than just images, but public discourse. Editor: This lithograph, beyond its social commentary, stands as a remarkable study of posture. The leaning back of the character to the right also suggests a slightly aloof or perhaps condescending reaction to the man and his dancing. Curator: Daumier aimed for social commentary through easily accessible art. His works provide a lens into his historical moment, filled with changing political landscapes, as well as human comedies and social stratifications. Editor: His approach, utilizing the language of satire, is both engaging and critically evocative, transcending historical context. What stands out is his skillful composition: capturing character with so little in the way of resources.