The man highest up (1909)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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"The Man Highest Up" is a thought-provoking illustration by artist Udo Keppler, dating back to 1909. This artwork vividly captures the themes of power and destruction through its dynamic and dramatic composition.The painting depicts a chaotic urban scene, where buildings labeled as "BUSINESS REPUTATION" and other structures are tilting and collapsing amidst flames and smoke. Dominating the sky above this turmoil is a large, menacing hand that looms over the destruction. The hand, with its overwhelming presence, points directly at a figure at the center of the chaos, who seems to be contributing to the pandemonium with bolts of lightning.This central figure, likely representing "The Man Highest Up," is an embodiment of influential power and control, manipulating the environment to his whims. The flaming and smoky backdrop, along with the collapsing buildings, suggests the adverse impacts of such power when exercised without restraint.Through this striking illustration, Keppler powerfully critiques the social dynamics of power and corruption, emphasizing the potential devastation caused by those in high positions when they prioritize personal gain over public well-being.
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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.