Entrance to the public baths at Deligny, plate 3 from Croquis D'été 1859

This lithograph was made by Honoré Daumier in the 19th century, using a printing process that allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction. Here, Daumier’s choice of lithography is significant. As a multiple, it made his social commentary available to a broad audience, aligning with his commitment to representing everyday life and critiquing social norms. The image itself, depicting the entrance to the public baths at Deligny, captures a moment of leisure and social interaction among Parisians. The lithographic process involves drawing on a stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treating the surface so that ink adheres only to the drawn areas. This technique allowed Daumier to achieve a range of tonal effects and capture the nuances of light and shadow, evident in the textures of clothing and the expressions on faces. The efficiency of lithography also speaks to the rise of print culture and its role in shaping public opinion and cultural identity during this period. Ultimately, understanding Daumier's work involves appreciating not only his artistic skill, but also the social and technological context in which it was created.