It is Old and Ugly..., from Le Carnaval à Paris n.d.

Paul Gavarni created this print, "It is Old and Ugly..." as part of "Le Carnaval à Paris." The lithograph captures a scene of social commentary through stark lines and tonal contrasts. The composition is anchored by the figures of a couple seated alongside an older, heavily dressed woman. Notice how Gavarni employs a dense network of lines to delineate textures and forms, from the intricate folds of the dresses to the subtle shading on the faces. The strategic use of hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of depth and volume, emphasizing the characters' physical presence. The print's strength lies in its ability to convey social dynamics through visual cues. The body language and attire reflect the era's societal hierarchies and attitudes. It highlights the transient nature of beauty and the undercurrents of social anxiety and class distinction. The formal structure of the image thus serves as a window into the complex social codes of 19th-century Paris.