Buster Bill, the Park Row cut-up (1906)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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"Buster Bill, the Park Row cut-up" is a striking political cartoon by Udo Keppler, presented in 1906. This vivid illustration is a satirical portrayal that captures the essence of political commentary of its time through its bold metaphors and caricatures.In the painting, a central figure labeled "Hearst," representing William Randolph Hearst, is depicted as a small, boyish character in a large pink hat and breeches. He is managing an oversized and grotesque creature with the label "DEM. STATE MACHINE" and a leash labeled "N.Y. Journal". The creature, melting into a puddle of yellow muck, symbolizes the Democratic Party as a monstrous entity that Hearst, through his newspaper, attempts to control or guide. The beast's glaring, exhausted eyes and drooping form suggest corruption and decay.Accompanying Hearst is a bulldog with an apprehensive expression, labeled "RIOT" and "ROTTENNESS," suggesting the turmoil and moral decay that may accompany such political maneuvers. The overall composition, with its colorful yet unsettling portrayal of political figures and the press, reflects Keppler's critical view on the influence of media moguls over state mechanisms and the consequent impact on 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.