Ath. L. Charles Coquerel 1849

Curator: Daumier's lithograph "Ath. L. Charles Coquerel" presents us with a striking image. The subject certainly looks like a man with a lot on his mind. Editor: I'd say he looks more like a little beetle, trapped in his own shell! The exaggerated head and tiny body create a rather humorous effect, don't you think? Curator: Absolutely. Daumier was a master of caricature, using distortion to reveal character, capturing Coquerel’s essence. Look at the cross-hatching—it adds such depth and shadow! Editor: Yes, the density of lines around the eyes and mouth really draw your attention to his expression, making it seem even more intense. It’s a clever artistic choice. Curator: The inscription below seems to mock Coquerel, pointing out his supposed advantages, such as his name being Athanase. A subtle jab at his inflated ego, perhaps? Editor: Athanase or beetle, Daumier certainly had a knack for capturing the spirit of his time through these witty visual critiques. It makes one think, doesn't it? Curator: It really does. He's a wonderful artist, indeed!