In Walachia -- Russian Generals 1854

Editor: Here we have Honoré Daumier's "In Walachia—Russian Generals." The lithograph depicts two generals and seems critical of the Russian military. What social commentary do you see in this piece? Curator: Daumier often used satire to critique the powerful. Note the church in the background, suggesting a connection between religion and political power. How might the generals’ exaggerated features and pilfered religious items comment on Russian imperialism and its impact on Walachia? Editor: That’s fascinating. I hadn't considered it a critique of imperialism. Curator: It’s a great example of how art can reveal the complex relationship between power, religion, and national identity during times of conflict. This deepens my understanding of Daumier's social critique! Editor: Absolutely! Seeing the historical context really changes how I see the work.