Oui Monsieur vous n'êtes pas de Paris... 1840

Curator: Daumier's lithograph, "Oui Monsieur vous n'êtes pas de Paris..." from 1840, presents a fascinating study in contrast and line. What strikes you about the work? Editor: It's hard to miss the exaggerated features – those noses! The piece feels both humorous and a little pointed. The body language also conveys a kind of accusatory tension. What formal elements stand out to you? Curator: I’m drawn to the dynamism created by the hatching and cross-hatching, giving depth to a fundamentally linear composition. Notice the economy of means; Daumier is a master of suggestion. Where does the artist direct our gaze? Editor: I think my eye is drawn to the focal point which is the figure on the right because he is brightly lit. He’s touching his neck, which emphasizes the emotional distress, so that is why that's the focal point, as it is high contrast.. What can you say about that choice of composition? Curator: Indeed. Light and shadow work to emphasize psychological drama. Consider the formal repetition of the hats as well as the overall monochromatic tonality and see how those details speak to societal standardization of class. Are these just two figures, or two types? Editor: You mean, are they meant to stand in for a greater idea? It looks like Daumier’s commentary is on Parisian life itself, and a clash of personalities due to social status.. Curator: Precisely. By simplifying form to the essential line and playing with light and shadow, Daumier extracts from these figures both individuality and type. What did you find surprising from that method? Editor: I found that this piece seems more than just humoristic and that, through careful arrangement and visual shorthands, the artwork gains a layer of sophistication in it's class commentary. Curator: Exactly. This seemingly simple lithograph rewards close examination by bringing focus to an intriguing approach and a profound commentary using strictly formal artistic considerations.