Monsieur Berryer devant sa glace ... c. 19th century

This lithograph, made by Honoré Daumier, presents Monsieur Berryer before his mirror. Lithography is a printmaking process using a stone or metal plate with a smooth surface. The artist applies an image with a greasy substance, then applies ink, which adheres only to those areas. Daumier was a master of this medium, and his caricatures were often aimed at social and political critique. Here, the material qualities of lithography – the way it can capture subtle tonal gradations and textures – are used to full effect. Notice how Daumier captures the weight of Berryer's figure, and the texture of his clothing. Consider the social context of this work, made during a time of political upheaval in France. Daumier's prints were often published in newspapers, making them accessible to a wide audience. He used his skills as a draughtsman to challenge the status quo, blurring the lines between art, craft, and social commentary.