Le boeuf gras
1863
Edmond Morin's 1863 illustration humorously tracks the life of the 'Bœuf Gras' (Fat Ox), a traditional star of Parisian Carnival parades. The top panel, labeled 'Bonheur' (Happiness), shows a peaceful pasture scene, while the middle 'Triomphe' panel depicts the massive ox garlanded and paraded through cheering crowds like a king. The dark punchline lies at the bottom: the celebration ends at the butcher's block, with meat cuts labeled 'Filet' and 'Tranche' framing a barrel inscribed 'Finis Coronat Opus' (The end crowns the work). It's a witty, slightly grim commentary on how society celebrates animals right before eating them!