A Napoleon of ‘high finance’ (1904)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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"A Napoleon of ‘high finance’" by Udo Keppler, dated 1904, presents a striking satirical portrayal of a figure in the world of high finance, depicted through the visual metaphor of Napoleon Bonaparte. The character in the illustration wears a sizable bicorn hat labeled “Schwab,” suggesting a caricature of Charles M. Schwab, a prominent figure in the steel industry and shipbuilding in the early 20th century.The figure’s forlorn expression and posture seated on a rocky outcrop beside the sea under a sunset sky evoke a sense of contemplation or distress. Clutched in his hands are papers labeled "Ship-Building" and "Scandal," alongside another labeled "Investigation," hinting at turmoil and controversy surrounding his enterprises. The sinking sun in the background, with the words "Business Reputation" bathed in its fading light, subtly suggests the decline or vulnerability of the subject’s status and acclaim in the business world.This artwork is a poignant comment on the perilous nature of reputation in the cutthroat arena of business and finance, using the iconic image of Napoleon to draw parallels between historical imperial ambition and contemporary corporate strategies.
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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.