Les augures modernes ... c. 19th century

Curator: This lithograph by Honoré Daumier, titled "Les augures modernes..." or "Modern Augurs," dates to the 19th century. It seems to present us with a scene ripe for satirical examination. Editor: My first impression? These guys look utterly miserable. Something about the long faces, the turned-down mouths, the general slump...makes me want to ask if someone stole their prophecies! Curator: Well, look at the context. Daumier was a master of social critique, and lithography was a readily accessible means of production and distribution for his commentary. Here, we see two figures dressed in what appears to be vaguely Roman attire, carrying books. The one on the left conspicuously holding a volume marked "NOTES ÉTIQUE" – ethical notes. Editor: Ethics, eh? I bet they're as dry as parchment. There's a comedic contrast though. Look at those boots! The juxtaposition of high-minded principles and ridiculous footwear...almost cartoonish, like a clown in senate robes. It evokes laughter at the expense of authority. Curator: Precisely! This challenges conventional high art. Daumier blurs the line, engaging with the popular print market while satirizing the bourgeoisie or those claiming some moral authority. His lines highlight texture and weight— the very material presence of the cloth, paper, and ink, all serving his intent to mock self-importance. Editor: Daumier uses shading so deftly. It creates these heavy, weighty forms that seem burdened by their own pomposity. You see how those deep shadows contrast with the sharp, thin lines that suggest humor? Curator: A study of material process— the transfer of image through lithography— demonstrates that Daumier embraced mass production to directly challenge class hypocrisy. His engagement is as vital to his statement as the resulting image. Editor: Thinking about it, perhaps they're not miserable. Perhaps they're simply bored. Bored with their roles, their rituals, the whole performance of appearing important. A little ennui mixed with satire. It's very, very French! Curator: It's interesting how such simple tools, in terms of artistic means, could produce such scathing criticism, distributed to so many. Editor: Yes, I suppose in that respect it has very modern relevance. Makes me think about the production of memes!