Spotprent op de debatten in de Eerste Kamer over de Rijnspoorwegmaatschappij, 1875 1875

This satirical cartoon, "Spotprent op de debatten in de Eerste Kamer over de Rijnspoorwegmaatschappij," created in 1875 by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans, depicts the Dutch Parliament's debate on the Rhine Railway Company. The cartoon uses symbolism and caricature to represent the political climate surrounding the railway project. The "Tweede Kamer" (Second Chamber) stands passively as a man in a suit kicks the "Rijn Spoor Maatschappij" (Rhine Railway Company) locomotive, portraying the company's progress as being pushed forward despite opposition. The cartoon is a visual commentary on the contentious political landscape of the time, highlighting the powerful influence of the railway company and the dynamics of parliamentary debate.