The artwork, titled “Arrival of the Special Commissioner in Alsace Coco Romieu,” was created by Honore Daumier in 1850. It belongs to the Realism art movement and is categorized under the genre of caricature. Currently, this artwork is housed at the Château de Compiègne in Compiègne, France.
The artwork depicts a satirical scene where a prominent figure, presumed to be the special commissioner Coco Romieu, is caricatured riding in a cart laden with books and packages. His exaggerated features and posture aim to invoke humor and critique. In his hand, he holds a paper with the words “L’ERE DES CESARS” (“The Era of the Caesars”), implying a return to an autocratic rule. The background shows a chaotic scene, with human figures who appear to be fleeing or reacting to the arrival of the commissioner, further enhancing the humorous and critical tone of the piece. The artwork uses sharp lines and exaggerated proportions, typical of Honore Daumier’s caricature style, to deliver its social commentary.
