A small job for six big policemen (1897)
Technique: Giclée quality print
Recommended by our customers
More about this artwork
The painting, "A small job for six big policemen" (1897) by Udo Keppler, presents a visually engaging and satirical scene brimming with color and character. This vibrant work of art depicts six larger-than-life policemen of various nationalities escorting a small, defiant-looking child dressed in an elaborate uniform.The policemen, portrayed with exaggerated facial features and comically stern expressions, are dressed in uniforms indicative of different countries—highlighting the diversity of police forces from around the world. Each officer carries a symbol of authority, such as a billy club or a rifle, which contrasts humorously with the task of supervising one small child. The child, in stark contrast, appears unimpressed and somewhat irritated, clutching a book labeled "FREE SPEECH," which suggests a commentary on authority and civil liberties.Keppler's work, rich in both color and critique, perfectly captures a moment of ironic over-exaggeration. Through this painting, he eloquently comments on the often disproportionate reactions of state powers to seemingly minor matters, especially those pertaining to personal freedoms and expressions.
Delivery
Returns
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.