Fatherly Discipline 1851 - 1852

"Fatherly Discipline," an 1851-52 drawing by Honoré Daumier, depicts a father forcefully disciplining his young son. The scene, set in a dimly lit room with a single lit candle casting dramatic shadows, showcases Daumier's mastery of caricature and social commentary. The artist, known for his satirical portrayals of 19th-century Parisian life, exposes the harsh realities of child rearing and the power dynamics between parent and child. The exaggerated features of the figures and the tense atmosphere contribute to the work's powerful social critique. This drawing, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, is a poignant example of Daumier's skill in using visual language to address social issues.