Nieuwjaarswens van Colijn 1900 - 1935

Here we see "Nieuwjaarswens van Colijn" by Patricq Kroon, rendered in pen and ink. The drawing presents us with bold lines and contrasting blacks and whites, forming a caricature of a figure flanked by symbolic objects. The figure is Colijn. The composition is striking: Colijn is positioned between a container labeled "Bybel" and a bag marked "Olie Geld"—Bible and Oil Money. This juxtaposition immediately sets up a dialectic, a tension between moral authority and economic power. Kroon's stark lines and caricatured features amplify the satirical edge, critiquing the intertwining of religious and financial interests. Note how the figure's posture and expression convey a sense of smugness. This is further emphasized by the radiating lines above him, resembling a halo, which creates a visual irony. The caricature functions as a semiotic device, encoding social commentary within its formal structure. Ultimately, Kroon’s piece invites us to consider the complex interplay between morality, power, and representation. The artwork remains an open field for re-interpretation, a sign of its enduring relevance.