"Pardon me, my dear..." 1869

Curator: This lithograph is by Honoré Daumier, titled "Pardon me, my dear...", part of his series called "Actualités". Editor: Gosh, it's got such a wonderfully chaotic energy. The lines feel so alive, like it's all about to burst off the page. Curator: Indeed, Daumier masterfully employs caricature to critique power dynamics. The central figures represent Liberty and, what appears to be, a figure symbolizing the wine industry. Editor: Liberty looks like she's putting someone in their place, with a look that could kill! I wonder what the wine guy did to deserve it? Curator: Given Daumier's social commentary, it is likely a commentary on the economic and political interplay of the time. Editor: Well, I feel educated and entertained! A winning combo.