The artwork titled “Jacques Babinet” was created by Honoré Daumier around 1857 to 1858. This caricature, measuring 24.4 by 32.1 cm, is a part of the Realism art movement. It is located in Château de Compiègne, Compiègne, France.
In the artwork, an animated figure presumed to be Jacques Babinet is depicted in an exaggerated pose, stretching his arms wide. His expression appears to be one of shock or frightened urgency. The humorous and whimsical tone is amplified by a giant hand holding an enormous snuffer aiming at the sun, highlighting the absurdity of attempting to extinguish the sun itself. The dark, swirling clouds in the background contrast starkly with the bright light emanating from the sun, underscoring the dramatism and satirical nature characteristic of Daumier’s caricatures. This piece cleverly critiques and mocks with a blend of realism and exaggerated, cartoonish style.
