Tire ferme, Gaspard ... y va s'neyer ... c. 19th century

"Tire ferme, Gaspard ... y va s'neyer ..." (Hold fast, Gaspard...he's going to drown) is a satirical lithograph by Honoré Daumier, a prominent 19th-century French artist known for his social commentary. The artwork depicts a scene of two men in a boat attempting to rescue a man struggling in the water, highlighting the hypocrisy of philanthropy. Daumier’s use of caricature and sharp social commentary resonated with audiences of the time, making him a leading figure in the Realist movement. This print is characteristic of Daumier's style, with its bold lines, dramatic contrasts, and biting wit.