Ou allez-vous donc?

The work juxtaposes a calm canine with the animated postures of the two men, creating a satirical tableau that mocks exaggerated bravado. Daumier’s caricatural treatment highlights the absurdity of the figures’ gestures, suggesting a critique of pretentiousness or false heroism within a seemingly ordinary setting.

Executed in lithography, the image relies on greasy ink applied to a stone surface, allowing Daumier to accentuate line and contour with fluid, exaggerated strokes. This medium supports his characteristic use of distortion and dynamic gesture, reinforcing the humorous tone through bold, simplified forms and stark contrasts.

Created in 1864, the print is part of Daumier’s extensive series of socially charged caricatures. It entered the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, where it remains on view, offering insight into the artist’s engagement with satire and his mastery of the lithographic process.