The Passage of the Influential Critic 1865

Editor: So, this is "The Passage of the Influential Critic" by Honoré Daumier. It feels like a pointed commentary on the art world. What strikes you about Daumier's perspective here? Curator: Oh, Daumier! He had such a delicious sense of satire. This is a perfect encapsulation of the critic’s assumed power. Look at the expressions of the onlookers, the way they seem to clamor for his attention. The critic, puffed up like a pigeon, is, of course, utterly oblivious. Don't you think? Editor: I do. It’s a bit sad and funny at the same time. Curator: Exactly! Daumier captures that tragicomedy perfectly. A reminder that sometimes, the most powerful people are merely playing a part. Editor: That's a great perspective. It makes me think about the art world today, too.