A Proof
1904
Fernand Gottlob, a prolific illustrator for the satirical weekly *L'Assiette au Beurre*, captures a witty exchange in this 1904 scene. A stylish woman clutching a hat leans toward a robust bartender, who stands confidently with hands on hips behind a counter. The handwritten caption at the bottom, titled 'Une preuve' (A Proof), suggests a humorous debate: the bartender seems to be arguing that years of serving gin haven't harmed her health, using her own sturdy figure as the ultimate evidence. It’s a delightful slice of Belle Époque street life, showcasing Gottlob's talent for finding humor in everyday interactions.