Molé apportant des étrennes au petit thiers

Art Historical Context

**Molé Apportant des Étr au Petit Thiers***Honoré Daumier, 1850, Lithograph* *Corcoran Collection (Gift of Dr Armand Hammer), National Gallery Art* Created in 1850 amid the turbulent politics of France's Second Republic, thisograph by Honoré Daier captures a satirical moment between two prominent figures: Louis-Math Molé, a conservative, and the rising Adolphe Thiers,ingly called "petit Thiers." title, translating to "Molé Bringing New Year's Gifts to Little Thiers," pokes fun at their unlikely alliance or rivalry, using the French tradition of *étrennes*—festive gifts exchanged at New Year's—to highlight political maneuvering and hypocrisy. Daumier, a master of caricature and a pioneer in lithography, produced over 4,000 prints for journals like *Le Charivari*, skewering the bourgeoisie and government. This work exemplifies his bold technique: fluid, expressive lines drawn directly on stone, allowing for rich tonal contrasts and dynamic compositions that convey biting social commentary with remarkable speed and wit. Lithography's affordability made such critiques accessible, amplifying their cultural impact during a time of censorship and unrest. Housed in the National Gallery of Art's Print Department, this piece from the Corcoran Collection reveals Daumier's enduring legacy as a chronicler of 19th-century French life, blending humor and critique to make viewers reflect on power's absurdities.

About the Artist

Honoré Daumier · 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...