Que diable est-ce qu'ils font la-haut! c. 19th century

Curator: This lithograph by Honoré Daumier, likely from the mid-19th century, is titled "Que diable est-ce qu'ils font la-haut!", which translates to "What the devil are they doing up there!". Editor: My first impression is one of submerged gloom. The somber grey tones and chaotic composition evoke a feeling of bewilderment. What's the context here? Curator: Daumier, a master of social commentary, was known for his caricatures that critiqued French society and political life. This image probably depicts public officials engaged in something dubious, reflected by the drowning figure. The seated figure seems to lament this chaos. Consider also, the urn spilling. What could it symbolize in the image and society, at large? Editor: From a formal standpoint, notice the expressive linework, particularly in the figure's wild hair and anguished expression. The lines give such form to the scene, its drama heightened through cross-hatching that suggests the dim depths of despair or even dread. It’s quite unsettling! Curator: Exactly! Daumier cleverly uses dark humor to expose the absurdities and injustices of his time. This is social commentary through allegory, implicating the elites in this unfortunate disaster and questioning the established order. It is almost calling on an audience, today and then, to imagine how we can all bear responsibility for this plight and its figures. Editor: There’s such an interesting balance between detail and simplification. The background dissolves into sketchy abstraction, focusing our attention on the central figures. The bright spotlight over the swimmer juxtaposed with the dark brooding foreground creates interesting contrasts. This formal dichotomy underscores, or calls into question, what might be above and beyond this chaotic ocean. Curator: Definitely. In conclusion, Daumier provokes us to contemplate the actions of those in power, highlighting their disconnect from the suffering they inflict. His artistry challenges us to reflect on whose responsibilities drown in plain sight. Editor: Indeed, this visual chaos invites us to contemplate order. A reminder that artistic form, whether deliberate or disruptive, conveys deep messages about our humanity, both then and now.