Surveillant la Commission de Surveillance

Honoré Daumier

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a figure with a cane standing in front of a building labeled "B.C.E.P. Nationale." The figure, dressed in a long dark coat or cloak and a wide-brimmed hat, appears to be striking a dramatic pose while holding a cane in one hand. The building in the background has a columned facade. There is a tall, thin figure in uniform and cap standing by a fence in front of the building. The title "Surveillant la Commission de Surveillance" and the word "Actualités" are printed at the top. The use of bold lines and shading provides depth and character to the scene.