China prentbriefkaart 'Einde der Eeuw' c. 1900 - 1918

This satirical postcard, titled "Einde der Eeuw" ("End of the Century") by Dutch artist Alfaro Reijding, portrays a grim allegory of the impending end of the 19th century. The image depicts a cloaked figure, representing civilization, burdened by weapons and holding a sign that reads "war." Behind them stands Death, wielding a scythe, signifying the inevitable demise of an era marked by conflict and social unrest. The postcard's yellow background emphasizes the impending doom, while the inscription "De beschaving met haar livereiknecht" ("Civilization with its greed") further underscores the critique of the time. This satirical commentary reflects the anxieties and uncertainties of a period marked by significant societal shifts and the looming threat of war.