Ayant terminé leurs travaux ... c. 19th century

This satirical lithograph, *Ayant terminé leurs travaux...*, depicts a group of politicians exiting the "Congrès de la Paix" (Congress of Peace) in Paris. The image is a caricature, exaggerating the figures' physical appearances and emphasizing their fatigue and boredom with a long-winded and ultimately unproductive peace conference. French artist Honoré Daumier, known for his social commentary and keen observation of the human condition, created this work in the 19th century, a period of political upheaval and social change in Europe. Daumier's use of line and shading adds to the humorous and critical nature of this piece.