"There, I've lost more than six francs this month... 1843

Curator: This lithograph is by Honoré Daumier. The inscription translates to "There, I've lost more than six francs this month…" Editor: It's stark, isn't it? All those sharp, nervous lines give a real sense of anxiety. She seems to be counting something, maybe potatoes? Curator: Potatoes are symbols of nourishment and survival, but here they appear meagre, adding to the sense of hardship. Editor: I find myself wondering about the social commentary—poverty, the burden on women. The lack of solid forms adds to the feeling of instability. Curator: Exactly. Daumier was masterful at using everyday scenes to highlight social inequalities, capturing the emotional weight borne by the working class. Editor: A haunting image, resonating with a timeless concern for basic survival. Curator: Indeed. It encourages a deeper reflection on themes of economic struggle and resilience.