The fit-thrower (1912)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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Samuel Ehrhart's "The Fit-Thrower," created in 1912, is a satirical depiction that captures a moment of political and social commentary through vibrant and expressive artwork. In the painting, a man labeled "Infant Industries" is shown dramatically sprawled on the ground, his body language suggestive of a child in the midst of a temper tantrum. His disheveled appearance and facial expression convey distress and exaggeration.Beside him stand two figures representing Columbia and Uncle Sam, iconic personifications of America. Columbia, dressed in a flowing robe with her name band, looks down with a mixture of concern and skepticism, holding a purse that suggests she might be contemplating financial aid. Uncle Sam, in his traditional stars-and-stripes attire, observes the scene with an air of detached amusement, his stance relaxed and his pocketbook significantly noticeable, implying potential financial implications.The backdrop features a serene setting near the U.S. Capitol, contrasting sharply with the foreground's dramatic interaction. This setting might imply that the event is taking place within sight of national decision-making.Ehrhart’s illustration powerfully comments on economic policies concerning protective tariffs and subsidies for domestic industries, humorously critiquing how businesses might dramatically claim inability to compete without government assistance, akin to a child's tantrum for attention and aid.
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American cartoonist and illustrator born in Pottsville, Pennsylvania, Ehrhart received his education in the New York City school system. Subsequently, he studied art in Munich. His work appeared in Harper's Monthly (1878-79), Puck (1880, and 1888-1913), and Judge (1887). He died in Brooklyn, New York on October 26, 1937.