At The Bar. Meeting point for the true lovers of French sculpture and Bavarian beer, plate 5 from Croquis pris à l'exposition 1865

Editor: This lithograph, “At The Bar. Meeting point for the true lovers of French sculpture and Bavarian beer,” created by Honoré Daumier in 1865, offers a rather sardonic commentary, don't you think? The two gentlemen in the foreground seem far more engrossed in their beer and cigars than the sculptures surrounding them. What's your take on this scene? Curator: You've nailed it! Daumier, ever the astute observer, uses this seemingly simple bar scene to playfully skewer Parisian society's pretensions. It's a brilliant juxtaposition, isn't it? These "true lovers" are perhaps more in love with the *idea* of appreciating art than the art itself. They're performing their roles. And that sly wink – the Bavarian beer in a French art context. Think about it - what are they *really* admiring? Or trying to? Editor: I see your point. It’s like they’re trying too hard, striking a pose for an audience that isn't even there. The beer almost becomes a prop. But why do you call it playful? There’s a hint of cynicism there too, right? Curator: Absolutely! The playfulness and cynicism dance together. It’s gentle ribbing, but with teeth. Daumier acknowledges the importance of art but doesn't let anyone get away with empty gestures. It is Romantic, but darkly humorous. He wants us to question authenticity – in art, and in ourselves. Does that resonate, looking at our contemporary world? Editor: It definitely does. Maybe we haven’t changed all that much since 1865. I never considered how such a simple drawing could hold so much social commentary. Curator: Daumier was a master of distilling complex ideas into accessible images. His "slice of life" approach, infused with wit, makes the lithograph endlessly engaging. Editor: Thanks. I definitely look at it in a new way now, much more than beer and statues. Curator: Exactly! A lot of food for thought. I've learned something new by seeing it through your eyes too!