"Let's go, Daddy...again...thirty-two turns..." 1847

Curator: Honoré Daumier's lithograph, "Let's go, Daddy...again...thirty-two turns..." captures a domestic scene, seemingly ordinary but ripe for interpretation. Editor: The father’s expression, caught between exasperation and affection, really speaks to me. It’s a relatable weariness. Curator: Daumier frequently used his art to critique societal norms and the bourgeoisie, though here, the focus seems to be on the pressures of domestic life and the expectations placed upon fathers. Editor: Exactly. He highlights the tension between public and private spheres, where even the seemingly lighthearted activity of playing with children becomes a site of labor and negotiation, particularly for men. Curator: The fallen hoop on the floor might symbolize the father's failing energy to meet the demands of his children. Editor: I agree. The image reflects on the often-unseen emotional labor within families and how that plays out. Curator: It's a small window into the complex dynamics of family life in 19th-century France. Editor: A poignant reminder of those everyday struggles and joys, resonating even today.