The exhibition pays homage to the great tradition of French caricature and pictorial satire, while also providing a basis for exploring the highly relevant topics of censorship, freedom of the press, and freedom of expression. Political caricature in France dates back to the French Revolution and became a central feature of French journalism during the 19th century. It reached its peak in the influential political satirical weekly magazine “La Caricature,” founded in 1830.
Outstanding artists working alongside editor Charles Philipon (1808–1862) used their sharp pens to criticize the existing social conditions, risking serious consequences in the process: Due to two caricatures of the French king Louis-Philippe and his government, Daumier spent six months in prison in 1832.
The lithography process developed in 1796 enabled the rapid production of images in large print runs. Thus, two loose lithographs addressing current political events were included with each issue of the four-page magazine La Caricature. Pre-prints and lithographs from L'Association mensuelle (Monthly Association for Freedom of the Press) provided financial support for expensive trials and became popular collector's items.
In 1835, “La Caricature” was shut down due to press and censorship laws. From 1832 onwards, the magazine was supported by the daily publication “Charivari.” During periods when political caricature was banned, the newspaper covered everyday topics, cultural events, and social issues. For the exhibition, the Staatsgalerie Stuttgart drew on its complete collection of “La Caricature” from its first appearance in 1830 to its last issue in 1835. The focus is on Honoré Daumier (1808–1879), the most important French caricaturist of the 19th century, who worked for both magazines, “La Caricature” and “Charivari.”