"And in this suit for seperation, gentlemen, observe two things" from Metamorphoses of the Day 1829

This lithograph was created by J. J. Grandville, and it's from his series "Metamorphoses of the Day". The image shows a courtroom scene populated by animal-headed figures, and was made using lithography, a printmaking process that relies on the chemical repulsion of oil and water. Grandville was a master of visual satire, and the lithographic process allowed him to create detailed, reproducible images that could reach a wide audience. The crisp lines and tonal range achieved through lithography give the scene a sense of realism, even as the animal figures create a world of surreal absurdity. By using this medium, Grandville could mass-produce his commentary on social issues like class, labor, and the legal system. The print’s creation and distribution reflect a growing industrialization and the increasing availability of art to the masses. This piece is a critical reflection of society, cleverly disguised within a seemingly lighthearted scene.