Ah! Ciel, ma plus belle potiche! ... c. 19th century

Curator: Daumier’s lithograph, "Ah! Ciel, ma plus belle potiche!..." made circa 19th century, presents such a theatrical scene. I'm struck by how he captures a domestic disaster with a comedic flair, even in a simple black and white print. What's your take on it? Editor: It definitely feels like a comedic scene, a disastrous moment frozen in time. The expressions are priceless. The broken vase, I think, is a good indication that the title has some kind of deeper significance. Can you share what is that you find compelling about this print, and perhaps its relevance to the social context of its time? Curator: It’s fascinating to consider what Daumier is satirizing. The title gives us a clue – “potichomanie.” In 19th-century France, crafting and displaying decorative objects like these porcelain vases was becoming increasingly popular among the bourgeoisie. It signified a certain aspiration to cultured leisure. Where do you think that information fits into what Daumier might be satirizing here? Editor: So the broken vase isn’t just a loss, but a loss of social status almost? A failed attempt to signal taste and sophistication? And the melodrama highlights the absurdity of valuing such objects so highly? Curator: Precisely! Daumier, known for his social critiques, often targeted the pretensions and anxieties of the middle class. He questions the social climbing facilitated by "Potichomanie." Also, how does the visual composition—the exaggerated gestures and almost caricatured faces—play into this social commentary? Editor: The exaggerated gestures, it’s over-the-top. The figures aren’t just sad, they are devastated and furious which enhances the comedic effect while simultaneously exposing the triviality of their concern. Curator: Exactly. And how might museums and galleries have, even back then, played a role in elevating and therefore legitimizing the tastes and trends Daumier skewers here? Editor: Right. By exhibiting similar decorative objects, galleries reinforced their perceived value, contributing to the “mania.” I am starting to wonder, how much of today's trends are tomorrow's parodies? Curator: It is a very insightful parallel to the role art continues to play in signaling and shaping social status and aspiration. Food for thought, definitely. Editor: Absolutely, that was really helpful in unpacking the layers of meaning in Daumier’s print.