The Arrival of the American Ambassadors in Peking 1859

Editor: Daumier's lithograph, "The Arrival of the American Ambassadors in Peking," is striking. The caricatures seem quite pointed. What kind of commentary was Daumier making here? Curator: Daumier often critiqued political hypocrisy. This image, part of a series titled "En Chine," likely comments on Western imperialism. The exaggerated features of the figures suggest a satirical perspective on American diplomacy and cultural exchange. Editor: So, the blindfolded ambassador… Curator: Precisely! It’s a loaded image. The blindfold, the leering figures... Daumier suggests a wilful ignorance or perhaps a calculated exploitation in the encounter between America and China. What do you make of the figure on top? Editor: It almost looks as though they are spying. Thank you, I see it now! Curator: Indeed! The image holds more to it than one sees at first glance!