Deux ex capacité de l'ancien régime c. 19th century

Here we see Honoré Daumier's lithograph, made with a greasy crayon on a slab of limestone, likely dating from the mid-19th century. The magic of lithography is the way the artist harnesses the mutual repulsion of grease and water. Daumier drew directly onto the stone, then the surface was chemically treated so ink would adhere only to the greasy areas. It's an indirect printmaking process, requiring both technical skill and an almost journalistic immediacy. This particular print feels very much of the moment. It depicts two men in conversation, "capacities of the old regime", likely commenting on their changing fortunes. The medium lends itself well to capturing the nuances of social commentary, and in this case, the class tensions of a rapidly industrializing France. Daumier used the print medium to engage in dialogue with an emerging mass audience. Appreciating the skill required brings us closer to understanding his perspective. It reminds us that even seemingly simple images are laden with labor, politics, and intent.