Comment..., flots impudents!... vous ne savez donc pas qui vous portez en ce moment,...., from Émotions Nautiques, published in Le Charivari, October 26, 1859

Art Historical Context

This satirical lithograph, titled *Comment..., flots imp!... vous ne savez donc qui vous portez en moment,...* from the series *Émotions Nautiques captures the exaggerated bluster of a pompous man berating the waves while aboard a rocking boat. Created collaboratively by Honoré Daum, Louis-Pierre-Martinet (Aaron Martinet), and Dest, and published in the French satirical newspaper *Le Charari* on October , 1859, it exemplifies the biting humor of Second Empire caricature. Daumier, a master of social commentary, often skewered the bourgeoisie and politicians through such scenes, here poking fun at self-important figures who fancy themselves above nature's whims. Printed on newsprint in lithography—a revolutionary technique for rapid, inexpensive reproduction—this second state of four allowed wide circulation among Paris's urban readers. Daumier's dynamic lines vividly convey the chaos of men, boats, and turbulent waves, blending realism with caricature to heighten the comedy. The modest dimensions (image: 8 5/16 × 10 3/4 in.) suited the newspaper format, making elite satire accessible to the masses. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Drawings and Prints department, this work highlights lithography's role in 19th-century political discourse, preserving Daumier's legacy as a fearless chronicler of French society.

About the Artist

Destouches|Aaron Martinet|Honoré Daumier (French|French) · 1808 |1800 –1879 |1900

French, Marseilles 1808–1879 Valmondois|Paris