“Friendly Arbitration: Honoré Daumier on Crime, Justice, and Punishment” Opening Reception

On Thursday, September 17, from 5:30-7:30 pm, join us for the opening reception of “Friendly Arbitration: Honoré Daumier on Crime, Justice, and Punishment.” This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be provided. 

“Friendly Arbitration” examines Honoré Daumier’s (1808–1879) subversive use of lithography and wood engraving as tools for artistic innovation and social critique in nineteenth-century France. Bringing together original prints from his popular series on lawyers, the legal system, and crime and punishment, the exhibition explores how his satirical caricatures challenged judicial authority, exposed social inequities, and helped reshape the fields of art and journalism. This exhibition is on view at MoFA until Saturday, December 12, 2026.

“Friendly Arbitration” is made possible through the generous support of Jay Steele & Matthew Wright.