Ne soyez pas inquiets ... c. 19th century

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph, titled "Ne soyez pas inquiets…", in France during the 19th century. It encapsulates the social and institutional critique that Daumier was known for. The print depicts a lawyer reassuring his clients. The lawyer, marked by his robes, promises success, emphasizing his shared Norman heritage with the clients. Daumier subtly critiques the legal system, highlighting the role of regional and social connections in determining legal outcomes. Daumier’s work often engaged with the burgeoning print culture of his time, using satire to comment on the social structures of 19th-century France. His art challenged the institutions of his day, using caricature to expose the inequalities and absurdities of bourgeois society. To fully appreciate Daumier’s commentary, it's important to consider the historical context of 19th-century French legal and social systems. Research into the structure of the legal profession and the cultural significance of regional identities can reveal the depth of Daumier’s critique.