Un Faux vase du Japon faisant... 1855

"Un Faux Vase du Japon, Faisant l'Admiration de Trois Vrais Chinois" (1855) is a lithograph by Honoré Daumier that satirizes the French obsession with collecting Asian art, a phenomenon known as "japonisme." The scene depicts a woman holding up a vase, likely a fake, while three men, likely art collectors, admire it with exaggerated expressions of admiration. Daumier, known for his social commentary and caricatures, cleverly exposes the folly of the art market and the gullibility of collectors. This satirical work is a quintessential example of Daumier's artistic style, which often utilized bold lines, expressive figures, and exaggerated features to deliver a powerful social message.