Occupation des représentans ... c. 19th century

Honoré Daumier's lithograph *Occupation des représentans spécialement chargés, à l'assemblée, de représenter les séducteurs* is a satirical depiction of the French political scene in the 19th century. Daumier, known for his biting social commentary, uses caricature to expose the perceived corruption and theatricality of politicians. The lithograph depicts a scene in the French Assembly, where a speaker, Lagrange, is shown dramatically gesturing as he addresses a crowd of indifferent spectators. Daumier’s use of exaggerated features and poses mocks the grandstanding and empty rhetoric of the time. This piece, part of a series of satirical cartoons, exemplifies Daumier's mastery of lithography and his commitment to exposing societal hypocrisy.