Later in his life, Daumier fought against the clerical influence on the educational system in France. The Church was opposed to free and independent schooling, which explains the caricature of the Jesuit priest who prefers to see the population in ignorance (the donkey) rather than losing his influence on them. This print refers to the "Jules Ferry" law of March 20, 1882 proclaiming free and mandatory education for all. The French cleric tried unsuccessfully to avoid the acceptance of this law.
Copyright restrictions may apply. For permission to copy or use this image, contact the Robert D. Farber University Archives and Special Collections Department, Brandeis University Libraries. The following credit line must be included with each item used: Benjamin A. and Julia M. Trustman Collection of Honoré Daumier Lithographs, Robert D. Farber University Archives & Special Collections Department, Brandeis University.
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Place of origin:
Paris
Notes:
2nd state.
Published in: Le Charivari, February 9, 1872.
Notes (acquisition):
Donated by: Benjamin A. and Julia M. Trustman, 1959.
