Charon's Boat

A boat poled by a bare‑chested man is about to reach a bank guarded by a three‑headed dog tied to a kennel. On the boat is a host of passengers, among them Pierrot, Harlequin, a soldier wearing a shako, Falstaff, and the artist himself, depicted as a melancholy fool in a yellow hat. Those familiar with French popular culture of the time will also recognize Bertrand, the sullen Robert Macaire’s associate, and Mahieux, a caricature of the supporters of Louis‑Philippe. On the opposite bank, a sign reads: “Toll — 5 C. per soul.”

The caption reads in the original French: La barque à Caron.