HONORÉ DAUMIER

ALBERTINA MUSEUM, VIENNA

The political circumstances are unstable, a nefarious clique is abusing its power, the economy is in crisis, and the social situation is growing ever more complex and confused. Accounts describing the situation in postrevolutionary France during the 19th century can seem oddly contemporary, and much the same holds true for the timelessly topical art of the great Honoré Daumier.

Daumier held up a mirror to his era, denouncing abuses of power and social injustices with a sharp quill and incorruptible humor. In his merciless radicality, he often ran afoul of the censors and once even went to prison for the sake of art’s freedom. And as a keen observer, Daumier also depicted everyday life in the modern metropolis of Paris.

It was in 1936, against the backdrop of National Socialism’s rise, that the ALBERTINA Museum presented its first major exhibition of Daumier’s output. Now, 90 years later and with support from works on loan from the Städelscher Museums-Verein, this French artist is to be presented in a new light. Alongside numerous lithographs and drawings, Daumier’s famed paintings and sculptures will also feature prominently—as will an animated film on the artist’s oeuvre with music by no lesser personages than Paul and Linda McCartney.

In cooperation with the Städel Museum, Frankfurt am Main.

The exhibition is on view from 6 February until 25 May 2026.