The Opportunist Majority 1894

Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen made this lithograph, The Opportunist Majority, using ink on paper. This isn't a unique artwork but rather one of many pulled from a single plate to be circulated widely. Here, the contrast between the wealthy and the working class is starkly depicted through Steinlen's choice of medium and the detailed rendering. The grainy texture inherent to lithography creates a gritty atmosphere, reflecting the harsh realities of the working class. The figures of the rich are drawn with smooth, confident lines, emphasizing their polished appearance and detachment. Notice the exaggerated forms; the wealthy are drawn with bloated bodies and menacing expressions. This shows Steinlen's critique of capitalist greed. Lithography, as a printmaking technique, allowed for mass production and dissemination, making art accessible to a broader audience. This democratization of art aligns with Steinlen's socialist ideals, using the very tools of capitalism to critique its excesses. Ultimately, understanding the material and method behind ‘The Opportunist Majority’ enables us to appreciate Steinlen's social commentary on labor, politics, and consumption, blurring the lines between fine art and social activism.