The Hour of Departure, plate twenty-six from Actualités c. 1916

"The Hour of Departure" is a lithograph by Théophile Steinlen created in 1916. It depicts two French soldiers standing at a doorway, likely leaving for the frontlines of World War I. Steinlen, a renowned artist of the Belle Époque, is known for his depictions of Parisian life and his poignant portrayals of everyday struggles. This artwork, created during the Great War, captures the somber mood of a nation at war and serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifice of soldiers. The simple yet powerful composition emphasizes the soldiers' stoicism and emphasizes their departure from their loved ones, symbolizing the profound impact of war on individuals and society. "The Hour of Departure" is a moving testament to the realities of war and the courage of those who served in it.