An old fable brought up to date (1893)

"An Old Fable Brought Up to Date" by Udo Keppler, painted in 1893, provides a vivid and whimsical examination of socio-political themes relevant to its time. In this colorful illustration, we see an exaggerated caricature of an older man, notably dressed in an outfit reminiscent of the American rural farmer, complete with a broad-brimmed hat marked "Party," suggesting his political alignments or affiliations.The man wields a cane and confidently strides forward, guiding a donkey that is weighed down by large sacks clearly labeled with "Pensions" and "War Tariff," topical issues in the political climate of late 19th-century America. The donkey itself is significantly labeled as the "Taxpayer," representing the common American burdened by financial demands imposed by government policies.Keppler’s artwork echoes the style and approach of political cartooning, using humor and exaggeration to comment critiquially on the impact of governmental decisions on everyday citizens. Each element in this painting—from the overstuffed bags to the weary expression of the donkey—contributes to a narrative that is as engaging as it is critical, inviting viewers to reflect on the intersections of policy, party politics, and the fiscal responsibilities shouldered by taxpayers.The illustration is not just a critique but a clever reinterpretation of traditional fables, repurposed to discuss contemporary issues, thereby living up to the artwork’s title.