Hurry, William, and hook me up! (1910)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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Udo Keppler's vibrant and satirical piece, from 1910, presents a visually engaging and politically charged commentary, characteristic of Keppler's work. This particular painting showcases an anthropomorphized elephant, adorned in a pink dress with the words "Republican Party" written across the fabric. The elephant, representing the Republican Party, is being assisted by a man labeled "Taft," referring to William Howard Taft, the 27th President of the United States, who struggles to tighten a corset around the elephant.The image captures a whimsical yet critical perspective on the political climate of the time, suggesting the difficulties Taft faced in attempting to consolidate or reform elements within his party, akin to tightening a corset. The choice of the corset, an item associated with constriction and modification of form, cleverly symbolizes the political restraints and shifts that the party was attempting under Taft’s leadership. The lively yellow background not only draws attention to the main subjects but also injects a sense of urgency and focus on the interaction.This piece not only serves as a historical snapshot of early 20th-century American politics but also as a testament to the enduring nature of political satire in arts.
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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.