Chicago, June 21, 1904 – ‘All in favor of the nomination will say aye!’ (1904)

"Chicago, June 21, 1904 – ‘All in favor of the nomination will say aye!’" is a vibrant and satirical painting by Udo Keppler, capturing a moment of political enthusiasm and participatory democracy in early 20th century America. The artwork, rich in detail and color, adeptly portrays a political convention held in Chicago on June 21, 1904.The painting features a giant, caricatured figure of a man, presumably a political leader or candidate, who looms over the convention hall with a gavel in hand, ready to call the assembly to order. His exaggerated smile and the gleam in his eyes suggest both the charisma and the overwhelming influence such figures often held over the political proceedings of the era.Beneath him, a sea of delegates, tiny in comparison, waves flags and hats, indicating their support or possibly casting their votes. The atmosphere is one of festive patriotism, underscored by the abundant use of red, white, and blue, along with strings of flags that frame the scene. Every inch of the convention space is packed, suggesting the high stakes and the intense participation that characterized such events.This painting offers a whimsical yet insightful look into the political culture of early 20th century America, emphasizing the larger-than-life personalities and the enthusiastic, sometimes boisterous engagement of citizens in the democratic process.