They succeeded in acclimatizing the Indian potato to the French climate, but it is still a problem to acclimatize the French to the Indian potato!, plate 1 from La Société D'acclimatation 1858

Honoré Daumier created this lithograph, titled *They succeeded in acclimatizing the Indian potato to the French climate, but it is still a problem to acclimatize the French to the Indian potato!*, as plate 1 from *La Société D'acclimatation*. In mid-19th century France, the Société d'Acclimatation was an organization dedicated to introducing and naturalizing foreign species. Daumier cleverly critiques this concept by portraying two men suffering from indigestion after consuming the "Indian potato," what we know today as the Jerusalem artichoke. The humor in this image underscores a deeper commentary on cultural assimilation. It questions the ease with which foreign elements can be integrated into a society, suggesting that while certain introductions may be superficially successful, genuine acceptance is more challenging. The physical discomfort of the men serves as a metaphor for the potential unease or rejection that can accompany cultural change. Daumier's work resonates with contemporary discussions about globalization and cultural exchange, asking us to consider the complexities of embracing the new without losing sight of existing identities and values. How do we adapt and integrate without causing discomfort or indigestion?