Dernière élévation de soulouque c. 19th century

Honoré Daumier created "Dernière élévation de Soulouque" as a lithograph, a medium well-suited to political commentary during the tumultuous 19th century in France. This caricature critiques Faustin Soulouque, the president of Haiti, who declared himself emperor in 1849, ruling until 1859. Daumier’s image depicts Soulouque as a grotesque figure, perched high in a tree, evoking a sense of his detachment from his people and the absurdity of his imperial ambitions. The fleeing figures in the background heighten the sense of chaos and the consequences of Soulouque’s reign. His depiction reinforces prevailing European stereotypes about Black leadership and governance. The imagery carries an emotional weight, reflecting the instability and social upheaval of the time. It's a stark reminder of how political satire can both reflect and perpetuate problematic narratives about race and power. Daumier challenges us to reflect on the legacies of colonialism.