Monsieur le concierge, allant en soirée c. 19th century

This lithograph, made by Honoré Daumier, captures a scene imbued with the social dynamics of 19th-century Paris. We see a couple, dressed for an evening out, seeking permission from a concierge, or doorman. Note the man's slightly obsequious posture, hat in hand, and the woman's expectant gaze, all directed towards the stoic figure of the concierge. Here, Daumier masterfully employs posture and facial expression to convey the nuanced power dynamics at play. The concierge, a symbol of authority, stands tall, his apron a badge of his station, looking down at the couple. This harkens back to ancient portrayals of gatekeepers, such as the Roman god Janus, who guarded entrances and symbolized transitions. Consider how the act of seeking permission has echoed through history, from religious supplications to feudal obligations, engaging our collective memory and subconscious understanding of social hierarchies. The emotional power of Daumier's scene lies in its recognition of these subtle, yet pervasive, power dynamics. The symbols of authority and submission resonate across time, reminding us of the cyclical nature of social structures, and how they continually resurface in different guises throughout history.