La chasse sur l'eau c. 19th century

This lithograph by Honoré Daumier depicts a hunting scene on water, dominated by the motif of the hunt. The very act of hunting, deeply embedded in human history, carries layers of meaning—survival, dominance, and the primal chase. The central figure with his rifle recalls classical images of the hunter, echoing the mythical figure of Actaeon, forever bound to the hunted. The image has evolved over time, shifting in meaning. In ancient times it could reflect survival, while in later aristocratic contexts, it became associated with privilege. Subconsciously, the act of hunting taps into primal instincts and suppressed desires, making it a powerful force, engaging viewers on a deep, emotional level. The hunt, as depicted here, is a non-linear, cyclical progression, resurfacing in various forms throughout history, constantly evolving. Daumier uses this symbolic weight to question societal norms of his own time.