A Model Son 1847

Editor: This is "A Model Son" by Honoré Daumier. The lithograph depicts a father and son. The son seems to be pulling the father along, and I get a sense of social commentary. What can you tell me about the historical context of this piece? Curator: Daumier was a master of social satire. His work often critiques the bourgeoisie and the political climate of 19th-century France. How might this image challenge conventional ideas about family dynamics and authority? Editor: It’s interesting that the son seems to be leading the father. Perhaps it reflects a changing social order or a critique of parental roles? Curator: Precisely. Daumier used caricature to expose societal flaws and provoke thought. This print was part of a series called "Les Papas," which satirized fatherhood. Editor: I didn’t realize this was part of a series! This context really changes how I see the image. Curator: Knowing the socio-political factors really can enrich our understanding of the artwork, doesn't it?