Le boursicotières ... Voyons, ma chère ... c. 19th century

"Le boursicotières ... Voyons, ma chère ..." is a satirical lithograph by Honoré Daumier, a prominent French artist, from around the 19th century. Daumier's work is known for its social commentary, often employing caricature to expose the follies of Parisian society. This particular print depicts two figures, a woman and a man, walking in a crowded street. The woman is exaggeratedly obese, a recurring theme in Daumier's work, while the man follows behind with a stoic expression. The artist's choice of lithography, a process which allows for quick reproduction, made his works accessible to a wider audience, and further cemented his reputation as a champion of social justice. The inscription at the bottom further adds to the satirical nature of the piece, highlighting a conversation between the two characters, emphasizing social class and gender roles.