Après la pompe a sang, la pompe à or 1871

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph, sometime in the mid-19th century, as part of his series, 'Actualités'. It presents a biting commentary on the political climate in France. Daumier depicts a man, presumably a political figure, vigorously working a pump. Instead of water, gold coins stream out, filling a helmet labeled 'France'. The earth beneath is marked with 'France' and 'Europe', suggesting the country is being bled dry to fill the coffers of the elite. Daumier was working during a period of rapid industrialization and political upheaval in France. His art frequently critiques the bourgeoisie and the corrupting influence of wealth. His prints appeared in journals like "Le Charivari," a popular forum for social and political commentary. To fully understand Daumier's work, we delve into the history of French politics, the rise of the press, and the development of lithography as a medium for mass communication. Art is never created in a vacuum, and historical context is vital for its interpretation.