Rappelès avec enthousiasme! ... c. 19th century

Curator: This lithograph by Honoré Daumier, titled "Rappelés avec enthousiasme! ...", likely dates from the mid-19th century and is part of a series called "Les Comédiens de Société." It depicts a theatrical scene. Editor: Immediately, what strikes me is the intense focus on the audience and the contrast of that illuminated frenzy with the two darker figures on stage taking a bow. You can almost feel the heat of those stage lights. Curator: Yes, Daumier excelled at capturing the spirit of Parisian society through caricature. The faces in the audience are brilliantly rendered, almost a sea of expectant expressions. The lithographic process, using grease and water, allowed for those nuanced gradations. Editor: It is interesting how Daumier emphasizes the artifice here; those lamps appear rather flimsy in contrast to the seemingly endless, enthusiastic gaze of the many audience members. Curator: Daumier used these kinds of images to offer social commentary. It's a critique of the theatre-going public, perhaps suggesting the performance is more about the spectacle than the artistry. Editor: I see that – a pointed comment on consumer culture! And he conveys this by focusing not just on the finished product, but on the whole theatrical apparatus. He almost pushes us to look at how constructed that enjoyment is, even manufactured. The title and accompanying text, mocking the 'success' in the lack of a 'claqueur', just adds to the sting. Curator: Daumier had a deep interest in the theater and popular entertainment. He used his work as political commentary and social criticism. His perspective reflects a shift of artistic concerns during this era. Editor: I'm drawn to the sheer skill in this printmaking; that quality of line work – it feels almost gestural. A truly economical way of conveying that collective mania in the crowd! Curator: It makes you think about the mechanics of art and how quickly they are consumed in popular culture. Editor: Exactly! I'll be thinking about that a lot as I depart this exhibit.