Charmant... trainant tous les coeurs après soi... 1839

Honoré Daumier sketched this lithograph "Charmant... trainant tous les coeurs après soi..." in 1839, a period of significant social and political change in France. Daumier, known for his satirical commentary on French society, particularly during the July Monarchy, uses his art to critique power and pretension. Here, two figures, possibly representing characters from classical literature or theater, are rendered with exaggerated features. One, presumably the object of admiration, appears aloof and awkward, while the other gazes upward with a mix of longing and absurdity. The emotional intensity of the scene is heightened by the stark contrast in their expressions and body language. Daumier's choice of lithography, a medium accessible to a wider audience, underscores his commitment to social critique. The exaggerated features and dramatic gestures challenge traditional representations of beauty and heroism. "Charmant..." serves as a commentary on the absurdity of human desire and the performative nature of social roles.