The Easter hat (1903)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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"The Easter Hat" by Udo Keppler, painted in 1903, presents a visually engaging and evocative illustration steeped in powerful political commentary. In this vivid artwork, Keppler portrays two figures—an older, stern-looking man and a young woman—in a scene filled with symbolic elements.The man, whose waistcoat is emblazoned with "U.S. Navy" and features a miniature ship, is depicted offering a peculiar hat to the young woman. The hat is shaped like an alligator, symbolizing danger or aggression, with the words "MONROE DOCTRINE" delicately scrolled across it, hinting at the foreign policy principle that opposed European colonialism in the Americas. The woman, dressed elaborately in a dress adorned with stars, and resembling the American flag, looks on skeptically, representing perhaps the nation's conscience or the American public's perception of military actions and foreign policy.This piece by Keppler, known for his astute political cartoons, uses satire to address the complexities and implications of American foreign policy during the early 20th century. "The Easter Hat" is not just an artwork but a historical commentary, reflecting the artist's views on the expanding reach and influence of the United States Navy and American government at that time.
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Udo J. Keppler, since 1894. known as Joseph Keppler, Jr., was an American political cartoonist, publisher, and Native American advocate. The son of cartoonist Joseph Keppler (1838–1894), who founded Puck magazine, the younger Keppler also contributed to cartoons, and after his father's death became co-owner of the magazine under the name Joseph Keppler. He was also a collector of Native American artifacts.