De Notenkraker, 10 augustus 1907 / De resultaten der vredesconferentie Possibly 1907 - 1910

This lithograph, made by Albert Hahn on August 10th, 1907, for "De Notenkraker", really grabs you with its directness. The high contrast between the black ink and the paper creates a graphic punch. I’m immediately drawn to the two figures, a before and after shot of sorts. The artist's use of line is remarkable, especially in the figure on the left. Look closely at the way Hahn uses delicate swirls and precise lines to define the details of the jacket. It’s almost as if the artist is inviting us to consider the transformation of the figure and the process that has altered their shape, a process of inflation. It reminds me a little of Daumier’s satirical lithographs, which also used caricature to make incisive political points. But Hahn brings a uniquely Dutch sensibility to his work. This image feels like a piece of art that’s both playful and profound, a conversation starter about the often absurd theatre of diplomacy.