One Hundred Million 1894

Théophile Alexandre Steinlen made this drawing, "One Hundred Million," with graphite and crayon on paper. The image offers a glimpse into the social and political climate of France, likely during the late 19th or early 20th century. Steinlen was known for his socially conscious art, and his work often critiqued the inequalities of his time. In this drawing, a stout, well-dressed man is being saluted by two military figures, the title suggesting a connection between wealth, power, and the military. France during this period was marked by significant class divisions and political tensions. The military held a prominent position in society, and its relationship with the wealthy elite was often a subject of public debate. Steinlen's cartoon subtly comments on these social structures, questioning whether institutions were in service of wealth. Understanding Steinlen's work requires research into the socio-political history of France, as well as the institutional histories of its artistic and military establishments.