If Moses came down to-day (1908)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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In the compelling 1908 work by Udo Keppler titled "If Moses Came Down Today," we witness a profound blend of religious iconography with contemporary societal commentary. This satirical painting depicts the biblical figure Moses descending, not from Mount Sinai, but into a modern landscape thronged with early 20th-century political figures and influential society members.At the center, Moses stands prominent and stoic, holding the stone tablets of the Ten Commandments high for all to see. His traditional attire contrast starkly with the suits and ties of the crowd before him, drawing a distinct line between ancient law and modern moral crises.The crowd, dense with animated expressions of shock, outrage, and disbelief, represents a cross-section of political and social leaders of the time, each tagged with their name or role. Their varied reactions capture the turmoil and complexity of modern ethics and governance, juxtaposed against the fundamental and unambiguous directives handed down by Moses.Through this powerful imagery, Keppler critiques the political corruption and moral challenges of his era, inviting viewers to contemplate the enduring relevance of ancient wisdom in contemporary society.
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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.