Comme on fait son lit on se couche c. 19th century

Honoré Daumier made this lithograph, 'As one makes one's bed, so one must lie in it', using a greasy crayon on a smooth stone. Lithography allowed for relatively quick reproduction, making it ideal for Daumier's satirical prints that commented on French society. Note the contrast between the mounted officer and the weary foot soldier. The lithographic process, with its ability to capture subtle tonal variations, enhances the figures. Look at the rough, sketch-like quality that conveys the harsh realities faced by ordinary people, juxtaposed with the pompous self-importance of those in power. Daumier expertly used the lithographic stone to create a sense of immediacy, inviting viewers to reflect on the social disparities of his time. This print blurs the line between fine art and social commentary, using the materials and methods of its making to amplify its message.