Au congres de la Paix c. 1919

Jean-Louis Forain made this drawing, "Au congres de la Paix," likely with ink on paper. Look at how Forain uses these quick, almost frantic lines, like he's trying to capture a fleeting moment. It’s as if he's sketching not just what he sees, but also the feeling in the air. The texture isn’t in the material itself, but in the energy of the marks – dark, decisive strokes defining the seated figure versus the lighter, more hesitant lines of the standing one. The contrast creates a palpable tension. Notice the way the seated figure is solid, present, while the other is almost ghostly, fading into the background. It's like Forain is showing us the weight of reality against the ephemeral nature of hope. Forain, known for his illustrations and social commentary, often used his art to critique the powers that be, much like Daumier. This piece isn't just a drawing; it's a question, a provocation, and a space for us to bring our own interpretations.