Allant aux renseignements politiques ... c. 19th century

Here we have Honoré Daumier's lithograph, "Allant aux renseignements Politiques chez le concierge du Général Changarnier," a commentary on the political climate of 19th-century France. Daumier was known for his satirical eye, often skewering the bourgeoisie. In this scene, Daumier captures the subtle dynamics of class and power through dress. The General's concierge peers out her doorway, while the figure in the center, draped in what appears to be a shawl or sack that reads “opinion publique” engages in conversation with her. A man whose hat reads “L’Ordre” is close behind her. The way these three are positioned suggests an informal exchange is about to happen between these figures. This is a snapshot of everyday people caught up in the machinations of a society where political information was currency. Daumier does not just present a scene, he invites us to consider the roles we all play in the theater of political life. The print reflects the emotional intensity of living in a society undergoing constant change.