Oui ... on a eu l'indignité de me refuser ce tableau ... c. 19th century

This lithograph by Honoré Daumier shows two gentlemen contemplating an artwork, purportedly a crucifixion scene, that has been refused for exhibition. The crucifixion, a symbol laden with Christian significance, speaks of sacrifice and redemption. Its portrayal throughout art history is vast, from early Byzantine icons to the Renaissance masters. The artist's indignation, as captured in the caption, highlights the emotional weight such symbols carry. The crucifixion image recurs in different contexts, often imbued with evolving meanings. Consider its political use during times of oppression, where Christ's suffering becomes a symbol for the people's plight. This act of pointing at the canvas, can be traced back to earlier artworks such as Caravaggio’s “The Incredulity of Saint Thomas” (1602-1603) where the Apostle Thomas pokes at the side of Christ in an attempt to prove that it was really him. The recurring motif of the crucifixion reflects our collective psyche. It shows how the non-linear progression of visual symbols are continually resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different historical contexts.