The artwork titled “Robert Macaire Bureau of Military Replacements” is a lithograph created by Honoré Daumier in 1839. As part of the Realism art movement, this piece falls under the genre of caricature.
In the artwork, three figures are portrayed in a scene that likely involves a dialogue or an interaction of notable interest. The central figure, with a corpulent stance and expressive facial features, appears to be negotiating or explaining something to the other two individuals. The left figure, holding a cane, listens attentively, while the right figure exhibits a skeptical or dubious expression. The use of exaggerated forms and facial expressions underscores the satirical nature characteristic of Daumier’s work, reflecting societal and military issues of the era through a critical and humorous lens. The lithograph’s monochromatic scheme complements the detailed and expressive lines, emphasizing the mood and dynamics of the caricature within the Realism movement.