Vous n'avez pas besoin de me rappeler ses titres... 1871

Honoré Daumier made this lithograph, "Vous n'avez pas besoin de me rappeler ses titres..." during a time of political upheaval and social change in France. Daumier, known for his satirical eye, uses the print to comment on the relationship between the powerful and the working class. The image depicts two figures: one, perhaps a member of the bourgeoisie, reminds the other of their titles, while the second man, likely a laborer, responds, "You don't need to remind me of your titles; I see them every day before my eyes." Daumier highlights the power dynamics inherent in social class. The laborer's statement reveals an understanding of his position, while also challenging the necessity of constantly reminding him of their societal standing. Through this work, Daumier pushes us to consider how we negotiate our own identities and the narratives we construct about ourselves and others.