Monsieur, vu l'absence complète ... c. 19th century

Here we have a lithograph by Honoré Daumier who made this artwork in nineteenth-century France. Daumier’s caricature captures the absurdity of social niceties amidst the competitive hunting culture of the French bourgeoisie. The image depicts two hunters, each with their dogs, encountering each other in a barren landscape. The text below reveals their polite yet darkly humorous exchange, with each man asking permission to shoot the other's dog, in the absence of game. Daumier’s art appeared in popular journals like Le Charivari. His prints often satirized the foibles and hypocrisies of the middle class, including their leisure activities. Here, the exaggerated features and stark contrast emphasize the ridiculousness of maintaining social decorum when driven by self-interest. To fully appreciate Daumier's work, one might explore periodicals of the time. These are crucial resources that shed light on the social commentary embedded in his art and underscore the vital role of the art historian.