J. B. Gustave de Laboulie 1849

Curator: This is Honoré Daumier's lithograph of J. B. Gustave de Laboulie, part of his series "Les Représentants Représentés." It's currently housed at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It’s striking how Daumier uses line and shade to create such a strong sense of volume, especially considering the exaggeration. You can almost feel the weight of his presence. Curator: Daumier used caricature as a powerful tool of social critique, often targeting the bourgeoisie and political figures of his time. He was deeply invested in the role of art within political discourse. Editor: The lithographic process itself is fascinating—the way the image is built up through layers of grease and ink. It's a relatively accessible medium, which fits with Daumier’s interest in reaching a wider audience. It democratizes image-making. Curator: Indeed, Daumier's work was often published in newspapers, bringing political commentary to the masses. Laboulie here seems to be presented as somewhat severe or self-important. Editor: Definitely! You see it in the pursed lips, the folded arms—all rendered with such economy of line. It shows how deeply Daumier understood the materials he was working with and what effect it would have on the final product. Curator: It's a potent reminder of how art can shape public perception. Editor: And of how readily accessible art can hold so much power in our social landscape.