Mr. Fulchir.., plate 273 from Célébrités de la Caricature 1833

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph titled "Mr. Fulchir.." as part of his series "Célébrités de la Caricature." The composition is strikingly simple: a full-length portrait of a man rendered with meticulous detail, set against a stark white background. Daumier masterfully uses line and shading to sculpt the figure, exaggerating features like the nose to create a memorable caricature. Observe how the textures vary across the print, from the smooth planes of the face to the coarse fabric of the coat. This reflects Daumier's interest in realism, but more than that, it is a comment on the social milieu of the time, using recognizable types to critique bourgeois society. The man’s folded arms and averted gaze suggest a sense of aloofness, reinforcing the caricature’s critical edge. Ultimately, this work is less about individual portraiture and more about the semiotic function of caricature. Daumier uses formal elements—line, shading, and composition—to communicate a powerful commentary on character and social standing. It invites us to reflect on how we interpret visual cues and construct meaning.