Home > Fine Art Finder > Artists > Honore Daumier
La Fontaine Renewed, Prussian Wolf disguised as a shepherd to guard German sheep
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
La Fontaine Renewed, Prussian Wolf disguised as a shepherd to guard German sheep
XJF441080 La Fontaine Renewed, Prussian Wolf disguised as a shepherd to guard German sheep, from Le Charivari, 10 October, 1867 (litho) by Daumier, Honore (1808-79); Private Collection; (add.info.: Renouvele de Lafontaine ; satirical cartoon using the fable of La Fontaine to make sarcastic reference to Prussias aggressive territorial policy and the annexation of Hanover and Hesse-Kassel after the Austro-Prussian War of 1866; Baden, although not yet formally annexed, became an ally of Prussia and was to play a prominent part in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870; ); French, out of copyright
Media ID 12881909
© www.bridgemanart.com
Aggression Aggressive Annexation Fables Flock Franco Prussian Hanover Hesse Imperialism La Fontaine Policy Sarcasm Sarcastic Wolf Fable Hesse Kassel Prussia Prussian
EDITORS COMMENTS
The satirical cartoon "La Fontaine Renewed, Prussian Wolf disguised as a shepherd to guard German sheep" by Honore Daumier is a powerful critique of Prussia's aggressive territorial policy in the late 19th century. The lithograph, created in 1867 and now part of a private collection, cleverly uses the fable of La Fontaine to convey its message. In this thought-provoking image, we see a wolf dressed as a shepherd, symbolizing Prussia's deceptive tactics to control and dominate Germany. The wolf stands tall among the flock of German sheep, representing the annexation of Hanover and Hesse-Kassel after the Austro-Prussian War of 1866. It also hints at Baden's alliance with Prussia, foreshadowing its role in the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. Daumier's use of satire and sarcasm is evident throughout this caricature. By referencing La Fontaine's fables, he highlights how Prussia manipulates others for its own gain. The artist skillfully portrays imperialism and empire-building through this visual narrative. This print serves as both social commentary and historical documentation. It captures an important moment in European history when power struggles were reshaping nations' borders. Through his artwork, Daumier challenges viewers to question political aggression and foreign policies that prioritize conquest over peace. Overall, "La Fontaine Renewed" invites us to reflect on the consequences of unchecked ambition while reminding us that even wolves can disguise themselves as shepherds when it suits their interests.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.