Mr. et Mme Prudhomme prenant un ... c. 19th century

This lithograph was made by Honoré Daumier in the 19th century, using a greasy crayon on a smooth stone matrix, printed to paper. The lithographic process allowed Daumier to produce images quickly and in large quantities, perfectly suited to his role as a satirical commentator on French society. Daumier worked during a period of rapid industrialization and social change. His prints often critique the bourgeoisie, the rising middle class, who are depicted here as Mr. and Mrs. Prudhomme, dressed in ridiculous costumes, caricatures of historical styles. The humor lies in their awkwardness. Daumier's printmaking was very popular, and the way he used social and political themes in his lithographs had an influence on French society. Daumier used his skill as a draughtsman to create a biting critique of the social climbing and cultural pretensions of the Parisian middle class. This print, with its sharp lines and subtle gradations of tone, embodies the spirit of its time and has been reproduced and distributed to a wide audience, influencing public opinion. It is a reminder that art need not be a precious object to be displayed in a gallery but can be a tool for social commentary and change.