The Novice Sailor. “Devil... rowing is much more difficult than I thought! And to really enjoy myself I would rather stick peas.,” plate 19 from Les Canotiers Parisiens 1843

Curator: Here we have Honoré Daumier's 1843 lithograph, "The Novice Sailor" – plate 19 from his series, "Les Canotiers Parisiens," currently residing at The Art Institute of Chicago. Editor: The choppy, almost frenzied lines create an immediate sense of unease and struggle, though tinged with humor. It feels…precarious. Curator: Precarious is a key word. Daumier masterfully uses caricature to critique the bourgeoisie attempting leisure activities. Note the central figure, gripping the oar, his expression a mask of strained determination that clashes wonderfully with his rather dapper attire. Editor: It is the clothes that get me—this city attire completely mismatched with the act of rowing! What does the clash of dress and task tell us about production, labor, and how such acts of supposed 'leisure' were marketed? I'd love to know more about the labor conditions behind those refined city clothes he's wearing! Curator: The text, directly translated, underscores this tension: "Devil... rowing is much more difficult than I thought! And to really enjoy myself I would rather stick peas.” Peas, implying agricultural work in stark contrast with Parisian recreation! The image highlights a broader social narrative, hinting at the romantic ideals juxtaposed with harsh realities. Editor: A good reminder to keep looking for the connection between what someone wears or does, and where the objects or activities truly originate! To truly understand pleasure, we need to understand what went into making the materials needed for this specific image. Curator: Exactly. The piece acts as both a snapshot of a particular moment in Parisian life and as a cultural commentary. It makes you consider what aspects of leisure were authentically joyful versus attempts to emulate a certain status. Editor: So true! Thanks for walking me through the levels of labor represented here.