“Heave-ho!..Heave-ho! Heave-ho!,” plate 179 1832

“Heave-ho!..Heave-ho! Heave-ho!,” is a lithograph created by Honoré Daumier, an artist who throughout his life challenged the status quo. This print comes from a series of caricatures targeting King Louis Philippe, in which he is represented as a pear, or “la poire” in French slang. In this particular image we see the ‘pear’ being hauled up, and perhaps even judged, by the figures beneath it. Daumier’s caricatures spoke to and for the working class, who felt dismissed and overlooked. His art became a vehicle for voicing political dissent, capturing the public's discontent and holding those in power accountable. Daumier was briefly imprisoned for his bold imagery. While incarcerated he stated that he was only able to express his opinions through caricature. His work is a reminder of art’s power to challenge authority, and its ability to connect deeply with those who feel marginalized or unheard.