Man Clutching Moneybags While Banks Collapse 1877 - 1894

Emmanuel Wyttenbach’s satirical cartoon, “Man Clutching Moneybags While Banks Collapse”, depicts a wealthy man desperately clutching his moneybags as buildings labeled “New York” and “Chicago” crumble around him. Created between 1877 and 1894, this artwork likely reflects the anxieties of the time, perhaps referencing the economic downturn of the late 19th century or the Panic of 1873, a financial crisis that had a significant impact on the United States. The cartoon's exaggerated style and use of labels highlight the absurdity of the situation and serve as a commentary on the societal impact of economic instability.