His first bath (1904)

Udo Keppler's vividly compelling political cartoon, "His First Bath" from 1904, serves as a striking critique of the political atmosphere of the time. Set against the backdrop of the 1904 Democratic Convention in St. Louis, this illustration cleverly uses symbolism and caricature to highlight issues of corruption and graft within the political landscape.The painting features an anthropomorphized tiger, fiercely striped with the words "Corruption" and "Graft," being forcibly bathed in a large tub by caricatured representations of key political figures of the era. Each figure is humorously exaggerated, adding a sense of satire to the serious commentary on the state of politics. The tiger, representing the rampant graft within the political party, recoils from the water being poured by a figure labeled "McCellan," highlighting the clash between political leaders and the corrupt elements they were ostensibly trying to cleanse.The use of the bathing tub and soap labeled "Reform" is metaphorical, pointing to the ostensible efforts at cleaning up politics, which often were seen as superficial or ineffective. Keppler's choice of a growling tiger conveys the resistance and deep-rooted nature of the corruption, suggesting it is not easily washed away.This artwork not only represents a specific historical moment but also invites reflection on the ongoing challenges of political integrity and reform.