Les marches du nouveau trone d'Allemagne 1871

Editor: So, this is Honoré Daumier's 1871 lithograph, "Les marches du nouveau trône d'Allemagne"—or, "The steps of the new throne of Germany". It feels incredibly cynical. What's your take on it? Curator: It is cynical, and rightly so. Daumier created this print in the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War, a conflict that reshaped the political landscape of Europe and led to the unification of Germany under Prussian rule. The print critiques the arrogance and brutality of power, portraying the figures climbing towards the throne as literally stepping over others. Editor: It looks like those 'others' are also royalty? Curator: Exactly! Daumier isn't just criticizing Germany, he is showing how power always tramples. He used lithography, a popular medium, to reach a broad audience and challenge the narratives being constructed by the ruling elite. The "steps" become a metaphor for the exploitation inherent in imperial ambition. Editor: So, it's less about this specific moment and more about a cycle of oppression? Curator: Precisely. How does this print resonate with contemporary socio-political movements questioning power structures today? Is there a line drawn between this depiction and what you observe in our contemporary society? Editor: Thinking about today...seeing people climb over others, or disregard them, to get to the top is still relevant. What strikes me most is the dark humor as a tool for serious critique. I guess the cycle goes on. Curator: It’s Daumier's artistic commentary, linking 19th-century power grabs to enduring patterns. Art offers such important avenues for understanding our world. Editor: Definitely given me something to think about.