The Emperor of Morocco in Consultation With the Famous Magician Desbarolles. “- This small line here indicates to me that you are going to get a royal thrashing!,” plate 126 from Actualités 1859

drawing, lithograph, print, paper

drawing

comic strip sketch

imaginative character sketch

light pencil work

lithograph

print

pencil sketch

old engraving style

traditional media

paper

personal sketchbook

france

sketchbook drawing

storyboard and sketchbook work

sketchbook art

This lithograph by Honoré Daumier, titled “The Emperor of Morocco in Consultation With the Famous Magician Desbarolles,” is a satirical commentary on the absurdity of power and fortune-telling. The Emperor, wearing a turban, leans towards the magician with a concerned look, while the magician gestures dramatically towards the Emperor's palm. The text below, which reads, “This small line here indicates to me that you are going to get a royal thrashing!” reveals Daumier's biting humor and keen social observation. This piece is a fine example of Daumier's politically charged and often cynical approach to his subject matter.