Head of Pasquin 1862 - 1863

Honoré Daumier created this oil on canvas, "Head of Pasquin," at some point in the 19th century in France. Daumier was known for his caricatures, which commented on the social and political life of France at the time, often landing him in trouble with the authorities. The figure of Pasquin is interesting in terms of the social history of art because he represents a figure of popular resistance and free speech. "Pasquin" was a nickname given to a Roman statue near Piazza Navona, on which citizens would post satirical poems and epigrams, often targeting figures of authority. Daumier's choice of this subject suggests an affinity with the tradition of political satire and social critique. Daumier was jailed for his caricatures of King Louis-Philippe so perhaps he identified with Pasquin as a figure of rebellion against repressive institutions. To better understand the artwork, research into the cultural and political context of 19th-century France would be invaluable. By understanding the political use of imagery we can better understand the public role of art.