Chimera of the imagination..., published in La Caricature no.118, February 7, 1833

Art Historical Context

Step into the sharp-witted world of 19th-century French satire with *Chimera of the...*, a lithograph by Honoré Daumier published in *La Caricature* no. 118 on February 7,1833. Daum, a master caricatur, collaborated with printerquet and publisher Aubert Cie to produce this first impression—a rare early proof noted by scholar Loys Delteil. Measuring about 13½ × 10½ inches, the print captures the era's political fervor through exaggerated forms and biting humor, hallmarks of Daumier's style. During the July Monarchy under King Louis-Philippe, *La Caricature* was a bold weekly magazine that skewered the government, bourgeoisie, and social hypocrisies with lithographic prints. Affordable and widely circulated, lithography allowed artists like Daumier to disseminate sharp critiques rapidly, making satire accessible to the public. This work, tagged with themes of women, politics, and caricature, likely weaves fantastical imagery—the "chimera" of the title—into commentary on illusory political promises or figures, blending women into the era's contentious debates. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department (Bequest of Edwin De T. Bechtel, 1957), this piece exemplifies how Daumier's incisive technique fueled opposition press, influencing public opinion and even drawing censorship. A testament to art's power in democracy's early struggles, it invites visitors to ponder the timeless role of caricature in challenging authority.

About the Artist

Honoré Daumier|Becquet|Aubert et Cie · 1810–1879

Honoré-Victorin Daumier (1808-1879) was a prolific French printmaker, caricaturist, painter, and sculptor whose works offered incisive commentary on the social and political life of 19th-century France. Known as the 'Michelangelo of Caricature,' Daumier produced over 4,000 lithographs, 500 paintings, 1,000 drawings, and 100 sculptures during his lifetime. His biting political satire led to his imp...