Dire... que nous avons un fils qui est... avocat... 1846

This lithograph by Honoré Daumier, titled "Dire... que nous avons un fils qui est... avocat..." presents a satire of familial pride. Here, the son, adorned in the symbolic garb of a lawyer, complete with his robe and toque, becomes a spectacle for his parents. The lawyer's attire is not merely functional; it represents societal status, intellectual authority, and adherence to legal tradition. This echoes the robes of ancient scholars and judges, transcending time and culture, from Roman senators to medieval university professors. It reflects a deep-seated human need to symbolize power and knowledge through dress. We see this echoed in Renaissance portraits, where specific garments denote rank, profession, and moral character. Daumier's caricature taps into our collective memory, evoking the historical weight and evolving significance of professional attire. The parents’ awestruck gaze further engages our own subconscious, highlighting the emotional power of social achievement and the complex interplay between personal identity and public persona.