The law can not be ‘removed’ by Christian Science (1902)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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Exploring Udo Keppler's 1902 painting, "The law cannot be ‘removed’ by Christian Science," we are drawn into a vivid visual critique that juxtaposes societal law against personal beliefs. The focal point of the artwork is a powerful, classically dressed female figure representing "Law," marking a clear assertion of authority and governance. She is depicted removing a smaller, elderly man labeled "Christian Science" from the public doorway of health regulations. This man holds a cane hung with books titled "Science and Health," suggesting his allegiance to the Christian Science movement, which historically debated against mainstream medicine.Behind this dynamic interaction, the bold text on the building—“Contagious Diseases Must Be Reported to the Board of Health”—emphasizes the painting’s theme: the necessity of public health laws prevailing over individual beliefs in the interest of societal safety. Keppler’s use of stark, contrasting colors and the dramatic physical interaction between the characters echoes the tensions of the period regarding public health and personal freedom.
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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.