Je vous en prie, rentrez dans votre boite... 1869

Editor: This lithograph, "Je vous en prie, rentrez dans votre boite…" created in 1869 by Honoré Daumier, depicts two figures and what seems to be a trunk. I am initially struck by the strong diagonal created by the figure emerging from the box and how it is countered by the almost imploring gesture of the figure cowering on the right. What do you see in this piece, considering the stark lines and composition? Curator: We observe immediately the dynamism of line characteristic of Daumier's lithographic prints. The strong hatching, especially around the emerging figure, generates volume and conveys an almost visceral sense of disruption. Note how the artist uses line weight to emphasize certain features—the nose and mouth of the figure on the left and the pleading hands on the right. What purpose do you think this distortion of form and the implied asymmetry serves? Editor: Well, given the title which translates roughly to “Please get back in your box; you are going to compromise my balance”, I suppose it is about the destabilization of Europe by a foreign power or presence, embodied in the figure emerging from the box. How does the materiality contribute to this meaning? Curator: The lithographic medium itself—its capacity for mass production and dissemination—contributes to the artwork's message. Its broad availability facilitated the rapid circulation of political commentary during a time of significant upheaval. Also consider how the contrast in shading adds depth but equally creates an almost farcical image—a crucial characteristic of Romantic-era works. Editor: So it’s the interplay between the form, its distribution and how it portrays a scene to make the statement, I guess? I hadn’t thought about that before, I was so caught up in its appearance and narrative. Curator: Precisely! A thorough investigation of intrinsic properties leads to new ways of approaching artwork.