Le Festin de Baltazar-Véron 1850

Honoré Daumier made this lithograph, "Le Festin de Baltazar-Véron," in France during a period of intense political and social change. Daumier critiques the powerful figures of his time, portraying them in a chaotic banquet reminiscent of Belshazzar's feast. Notice how each character is grotesquely rendered and the chairs are labelled 'Patrie' and 'Constitution Reforme', suggesting the politicians are gorging themselves at the expense of the nation's values. France at this time was a society marked by stark class divisions and political turmoil, where institutions like the press played a crucial role in shaping public opinion. Daumier's work often appeared in satirical journals, challenging the status quo and holding the elite accountable. Delving into the history of the French press, political movements, and the careers of the individuals lampooned by Daumier can deepen our appreciation of this artwork. What it reveals is how art can serve as a potent tool for social commentary. Meaning, then, is contingent on a broader social and institutional context.