The ass and his leader (1894)
Technique: Giclée quality print
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Udo Keppler's 1894 painting "The Ass and His Leader" cleverly offers a narrative of frustration and authority just as evocative today as it was in the 19th century. This vibrant piece depicts an amusing yet critical scenario involving a stubborn ass and an exasperated elderly man. Situated precariously on a rock edge, the ass, stubbornly resists the guidance of its leader. Adorned with a bridle labeled "Senators," this portrayal of the ass adds a layer of political satire, suggesting criticism of the Senate's obstinacy or inefficiency during Keppler’s time.The elderly man, equipped with a guide whip and expressing a tired frown, seems at wits’ end. His pose, reclining yet poised to strike, along with his location on the "Good Government Road," perhaps symbolizes the struggles and frustrations inherent in steering a government—or any unwieldy body—along a righteous path. Through this striking visual metaphor, Keppler captures the eternal dance of leadership and resistance, wrapped in a humorous yet poignant political critique.
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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.