–Oh, my son, what a wonderful scene! You see here the exhibition hall of the temple of peace! –Yes, papa, and the military academy too!, from 'World Exhibitions,' published in Le Charivari

Honoré Daumier (1808-1879) was a prolific French artist and printmaker, renowned for his satirical lithographs and caricatures that provide a trenchant critique of nineteenth-century French society and politics. Born in Marseille, Daumier's vast oeuvre extends to paintings and sculptures, often highlighting social injustices and the everyday lives of Parisians. His powerful, expressive style, seen in works like Rue Transnonain and his caricatures of political figures, combined biting humor with deep empathy for the working class. Despite facing censorship and imprisonment during his lifetime, Daumier is today hailed as one of the most influential artists of his time.

Valmondois, France