Après vous ... s'il en reste! ... c. 19th century

This lithograph, by Honoré Daumier, was likely made in the mid-19th century. It would have been printed on paper using a flat stone matrix. The process of lithography allows for a relatively quick and repeatable means of production. Daumier drew directly onto the stone with a greasy crayon, taking advantage of the material's natural porosity. When the stone was treated with water and then inked, the ink would adhere only to the drawn areas. From this, multiple impressions could be pulled. The image depicts the leisure activities of the French Bourgeoisie, and reveals the social context of the time. Through the printmaking process, Daumier ensured that his commentary on society could be widely disseminated, engaging with social issues of the time. The level of work involved in the printmaking process makes a statement itself. This was not a precious, unique object, but a multiple, intended for mass consumption. In understanding how Daumier produced his images, we begin to see how his work challenged the traditional boundaries of art.