"I was deprived of the happiness to pick it up... I saw a hundred times an agile rival offer it smiling to our common goddess." from the Little Miseries of Human Life 1843

This lithograph, made by J. J. Grandville in the 19th century, captures a moment of social anxiety with humor and keen observation. The printmaking process itself – a relatively quick method of reproducing images on paper – democratized art in a way that painting never could. Looking closely, notice the stark contrast between the figures: the bulky, frustrated suitor on the right, his nimble rival by the mantlepiece, and the woman they both court. The quality of line here is also crucial. Grandville’s use of lithography allows for fine detail. You can see the textures of the clothing, the patterned floor, and the objects that establish the setting. It is this rich texture that brings the scene to life. The print is more than just a funny image; it's a wry commentary on social life and courtship. The ‘little miseries’ Grandville depicts touch on themes of class, competition, and the rituals of love – all made accessible through the repeatable medium of lithography. Appreciating this print involves understanding its social context, reminding us that art is not separate from life, but deeply intertwined with it.