The Cannon boom. Are you on (1908)

Udo Keppler's satirical artwork titled "The Cannon Boom: Are You On" from 1908 presents a vivid commentary on political and economic dynamics of early 20th century America. The painting depicts two figures on an imaginative seesaw, ingeniously crafted from elements labeled "Wall Street" and controlled by a smaller figure representing J.P. Morgan, a significant financier of the time.The dominant figure poised precipitously atop this seesaw is Joseph Gurney Cannon, a prominent and influential politician of the era, known for his long tenure as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. Keppler portrays Speaker Cannon with an exaggerated, towering height and a slightly perplexed expression, underlining his political prowess and the looming uncertainties of his influential decisions. The smoke trailing from his cigar adds a subtle hint of his commanding and perhaps contentious nature.In stark contrast, the smaller figure, J.P. Morgan, is shown actively bending the trajectory of the "Wall Street" seesaw with a lever, symbolizing his enormous control over financial markets and political landscapes. His intent focus and exertion underscore the significant efforts by financial powers to sway political outcomes.The background, with a simple depiction of sky and scattered clouds, focuses the viewer’s attention primarily on the interaction between these two figures, emphasizing the dynamics of power and influence in America."The Cannon Boom: Are You On" is a compelling piece that encapsulates the intricate and often contentious interactions between politics and finance, rendered through Keppler’s characteristic wit and artistic clarity.