Pole-vault: An exercise taken from the circus, from 'News of the day,' published in Le Charivari, March 9, 1870

Art Historical Context

This lively lithograph, titled *-vault: An exercise taken the circus, from ' of the day,'* published in the satirical French *Le Charivari* on March 9, 1870. Primarily attributed to Honoré Daumier, a masteraturist renowned for his biting social and political commentary, it features contributions or pseudonyms like Walter Frères, Arnaud de Vresse, and a jab at politician Adolphe Thiers. on newsprint in the second state of twoas cataloged by Del), the modest 9 3/8 7 13/16 in. image captures the era's topical humor through exaggerated figures mid-pole-vault, blending circus spectacle with pointed mockery. Daumier's lithography technique—bold lines, dynamic shading, and expressive distortion—was perfect for *Le Charivari*'s fast-paced satire, allowing rapid production and wide distribution amid France's turbulent 1870s. Here, the "circus exercise" likely lampoons political acrobatics, with Thiers and others as tumbling performers, reflecting public cynicism toward leaders during the lead-up to the Franco-Prussian War. The inclusion of men and women underscores Daumier's inclusive wit on gender and society. As a gift to the Metropolitan Museum of Art from Harry G. Friedman in 1954, this print exemplifies 19th-century caricature's cultural punch: affordable, ephemeral art that shaped public opinion with sharp insight and theatrical flair. Visitors, imagine flipping through *Le Charivari* over coffee, chuckling at power's pratfalls!

About the Artist

Walter Frères|Honoré Daumier|Arnaud de Vresse|Marie Joseph Louis Adolphe Thiers (French|French|French) · 1856 |1808 | –1870 |1879 |

|French, Marseilles 1808–1879 Valmondois|