If you want to get rid of mosquitos, drain the swamp that breeds them (1909)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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Udo Keppler's evocative 1909 painting, "If you want to get rid of mosquitos, drain the swamp that breeds them," is a striking visual allegory that delves deep into themes of political corruption and reform. In this vivid piece, Keppler, known for his poignant political cartoons, depicts a distressing scene featuring a caricatured Uncle Sam, overwhelmed and under attack by a swarm of mosquitoes rising from a swamp.Each mosquito in the artwork is labeled with terms such as "Subsidized," "Scandal," "Graft," and "Monopoly," clearly symbolizing the various societal and political ills that plagued the era. Uncle Sam, representing the United States, is shown in a state of distress and frustration as he futilely attempts to fend off these pests.The swamp, marked by a sign that reads "The Tariff as Politics," serves as a metaphor for the breeding ground of corruption and malpractice within the political system. The tranquil and beautiful background, featuring a sunset over calm waters, starkly contrasts the chaotic foreground, highlighting the disparity between the ideal state of governance and the reality of the time.
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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.