Mr. Pot De Naz.., plate 270 from Célébrités de la Caricature 1833

This lithograph, by Honoré Daumier, is a portrait of Mr. Pot De Naz, and it is number 270 from Célébrités de la Caricature. The image is made through lithography, a printing process that democratized image production in the 19th century. A design is drawn on a flat stone or metal plate with a greasy crayon, then treated with chemicals so that only the drawn areas will hold ink. This printmaking technique allowed for relatively quick and inexpensive reproduction, which was perfect for satire and political commentary of the time. Daumier uses the inherent qualities of the lithographic medium, such as its ability to capture fine lines and subtle gradations of tone, to emphasize the exaggerated features of his subject. The stark contrast between light and shadow adds depth and drama, enhancing the caricature's impact. The image is tied to the social and political context of 19th-century France, reflecting the era's growing critique of power. Daumier's choice of lithography speaks to the importance of materials and making in understanding the full meaning of an artwork, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.