Un Banquet d'hippophages 1865

This lithograph, titled "Un Banquet d'hippophages," was made by Honoré Daumier using the process of lithography. Daumier’s choice of lithography, a printmaking technique using a stone or metal plate, speaks to the rise of mass media and its impact on artistic expression. The material influence is evident in the work's stark contrasts and bold lines, achieved through the transfer of greasy ink to paper under great pressure. This method allowed Daumier to produce multiple impressions quickly, making his satirical commentary accessible to a wide audience. The inherent qualities of lithography are visible in the sharp details and tonal gradations, which contribute to the caricature-like quality of the figures. Daumier's engagement with printmaking traditions, combined with his sharp wit, elevated lithography from a mere commercial medium to a powerful tool for social critique. Through his mastery of materials and process, Daumier challenges the established norms of fine art, using craft to confront the pressing issues of his time.