Spotprent over de afschaffing van de suikeraccijns 1886

"Spotprent over de afschaffing van de suikeraccijns" is a satirical cartoon created by Jan Holswilder in 1886. The print depicts a scene where a doctor, representing the government, refuses to treat a sick woman, representing the Dutch East Indies, because he lacks the necessary medicine. The lack of medicine is attributed to the abolition of the sugar tax, which was a major source of revenue for the colonial government. The cartoon is a commentary on the economic and political issues surrounding the Dutch colonial enterprise in the 19th century, highlighting the struggles of the indigenous population and the government's indifference. The artwork is an example of political caricature, a popular genre used to criticize social and political issues. The use of symbolism and exaggeration is characteristic of this genre, which often sought to provoke public opinion and stimulate debate.