Conservatism (1907)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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The satirical painting "Conservatism" by Udo Keppler, created in 1907, offers a thought-provoking commentary on socio-political themes of its time, which still resonates today. This artwork depicts a portly, monocled man exuding a sense of self-satisfaction and authority, perched atop a precariously stacked pile of books. Notably, these books carry titles such as "Juggled Books," "Public Graft," and "Syndicate Profits," suggesting themes of corruption, financial manipulation, and abuse of power.The character, adorned with a top hat and a badge that reads “DON'T rock the boat,” metaphorically represents the conservative figures of the era who resisted change in order to maintain their own privileged positions. His dismissive gesture and smug expression further emphasize his detachment and disregard for the consequences of his actions on the broader society.Keppler's use of vibrant colors and exaggerated forms not only enhances the visual impact of the piece but also serves to underline the caricatured nature of the subject, making a direct and enduring statement about resistance to progressive change and the preservation of self-interest at the expense of ethical governance.
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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.