Soldaat van de Nationale Garde patrouilleert door de regen 1842

"Soldaat van de Nationale Garde patrouilleert door de regen" (1842) by Honoré Daumier is a lithograph depicting a soldier, hunched and miserable, walking through heavy rain, possibly on patrol. This satirical work, housed in the Rijksmuseum, showcases Daumier's keen social commentary and often humorous portrayal of contemporary life. The soldier, a symbol of authority, appears weary and diminished by the harsh conditions, highlighting the artist's critique of societal pressures and the burdens of everyday life. The image provides a glimpse into the realities of life for those in positions of power, offering viewers a poignant contrast to the often-romanticized view of military service.