Caricature of Charles Philipon 1859

Hippolyte Mailly created this pencil drawing, "Caricature of Charles Philipon," in the 19th century. It features a man whose exaggerated features are immediately striking. The disproportionately large nose and head contrast with his slender frame, creating a comical effect. Consider how the artist uses line to define form and convey character. Notice how the sharp, angular strokes delineate the subject's facial features, emphasizing their irregularity, whereas softer, curved lines describe the contours of his clothing and hair, adding a sense of movement. The figure is slightly off-center, holding a sign whose text is illegible but its presence adds context to the subject. The overall composition is simple, but the subject is presented in such a way as to destabilize conventional portraiture. The caricature serves as a form of social commentary, using humor to critique and challenge societal norms. The drawing prompts us to reflect on the power of representation and its ability to shape our perceptions of individuals and institutions.