Commission des bastonnades
1855
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
1855
ink
From the collection of National Gallery of Art
This lithograph shows a sharply dressed man facing two rough men with sticks. It’s set in a bare room with a table and papers. Daumier made this in 1855 as part of a series. He used bold black lines to show tension. The scene hints at unfair power and rough justice. If you like this bold style, check out Daumier, Honoré.