"They are disappearing . . . Look over there . . ." c. 19th century

Editor: This lithograph, "They are disappearing . . . Look over there . . ." by Honoré Daumier, is striking. The stark contrast and hurried figures create a sense of unease. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a commentary on the means of production and its impact on the working class. Note the coarse lines, indicative of mass production. Daumier’s choice of lithography, a readily available medium, makes the art accessible. Editor: Accessible in what way? Curator: It democratizes art, placing it within reach of the masses rather than remaining confined to elite circles. Daumier implicates labor and consumption in how Parisians negotiate social boundaries. Editor: I hadn't considered the medium itself as part of the message. That's fascinating.