The Democrats Finding Their Moses, from Puck n.d.

Joseph Keppler's "The Democrats Finding Their Moses" presents a tableau of political satire through color lithography. The composition is dense with caricatured figures arranged in a shallow foreground, drawing us into a scene of mock discovery set against a stark Egyptian backdrop. The artist employs a palette that is vivid, if discordant, to amplify the satirical tone, with exaggerated physiognomies and costumes that both attract and repel our gaze. Note the exaggerated facial features and the way the figures are dressed which evokes the imagery of ancient Egypt but is simultaneously disrupted by modern political symbols. This creates a powerful sense of irony. The composition of the group conveys a sense of disarray, suggesting a party in search of leadership. The visual language is clear: the Democrats are comically lost, seeking guidance from an unlikely savior. The exaggerated perspective and cartoonish rendering serve to underscore the instability and perceived desperation within the Democratic Party. Through these formal decisions, Keppler’s work functions as a critical commentary on the political landscape of his time.