Spotprent met minister Heemskerk als Penelope, 1886 1886

"Spotprent met minister Heemskerk als Penelope", created by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans in 1886, is a satirical caricature depicting Dutch politician, J. Heemskerk, as Penelope from Homer's Odyssey. In the image, Heemskerk is shown weaving, referencing Penelope's legendary delaying tactics to avoid remarriage. The caption at the bottom alludes to Heemskerk's political maneuvering, using the Dutch phrase "Haast mij zooveel als gij wilt, steeds weet ik een middel tot uitstel". This caricature was likely a commentary on contemporary Dutch politics and the cunning strategies employed by politicians. It showcases the artist's ability to blend classical mythology with contemporary political satire, making it a fascinating artifact of 19th-century Dutch social commentary.