Spotprent op de spoorwegplannen, 1875 1875

"Spotprent op de spoorwegplannen, 1875" is a satirical cartoon by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans, created in 1875. The drawing, which measures 275 mm in height and 215 mm in width, depicts a man, likely a politician, using a watering can to nurture a tiny train on a track, symbolizing the government's involvement in railroad plans. The caption, "De Minister van Finnenkandache Zaken verbeugt zich over het eerste onkiemen," which translates to "The Minister of Finance is happy about the first sprout," further highlights the satirical nature of the artwork, criticizing the government's efforts in developing the railway system. This political cartoon, a prominent genre in the 19th century, was a potent tool for expressing social and political commentary.