Karikatuur van vier mannen die zich scheren 1825

Louis Léopold Boilly created this caricature of four men shaving, using a technique called lithography. This printmaking process, which involves drawing on a flat stone with a greasy crayon, was cutting-edge at the time. You might notice the artist’s emphasis on capturing the texture and tone in the faces and the fabrics of the shirts. Lithography was a good medium for that. The medium also allowed for relatively quick and easy reproduction. Boilly was known for his detailed depictions of everyday life, and this print is a great example. Shaving might seem like a mundane activity, but here, it's elevated to a subject worthy of artistic attention. The expressions of the men— a grimace here, a wince there—suggest the potential dangers lurking in this act of personal grooming. Ultimately, Boilly’s choice of lithography democratized the image. This print isn't just a record of a moment; it's also a reflection on the human condition, made accessible through the clever application of materials and process.