The print titled "La Ménagerie Impériale" is a satirical caricature featuring Bernier. It is part of a series composed of 31 hand-colored lithograph plates by the artist Hadol, published in Paris by Au Bureau des Annonces around 1870. The album, "LA MENAGERIE IMPÉRIALE," depicts various figures as animals, metaphorically representing those who have "devoured" France over the past 20 years, including during the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871).
In this specific print, Bernier is depicted with his head attached to the body of an oyster. The oyster is shown open with Bernier’s head inside, symbolizing secretive and dark intrigues. The text at the top reads "BERNIER" and "N° 21," indicating this is the twenty-first in the series. Below the image, the caption "L'HUÎTRE" (The Oyster) is followed by "Intrigues ténébreuses" (Dark Intrigues), emphasizing Bernier's perceived involvement in secretive and obscure dealings.
The album as a whole, titled "LA MENAGERIE IMPÉRIALE," is a caricatural representation of the royal family and significant politicians of the time, using animal imagery to critique their roles and actions. The plates were originally issued loose in contemporary boards with a mounted hand-colored lithographed title. The format is small quarto (Sm. 4to), and the edges are slightly worn and browned, typical for works of this age.
This print, along with the rest of the album, serves as a historical and political commentary, utilizing humor and satire to criticize the leadership during a turbulent period in France’s history.
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