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A General Blow Up - Dead Asses Kicking a Live Lion, 1874 (wood engraving)
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A General Blow Up - Dead Asses Kicking a Live Lion, 1874 (wood engraving)
1078633 A General Blow Up - Dead Asses Kicking a Live Lion, 1874 (wood engraving) by Nast, Thomas (1840-1902); Collection of the New-York Historical Society, USA; (add.info.: Published in Harpers Weekly, May 16, 1874.
); eNew York Historical Society; American, out of copyright
Media ID 22493410
© New York Historical Society / Bridgeman Images
Asses Congress Debt Inflation Kicking Lions President Presidents Wild Animal Blow Up Veto
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A General Blow Up - Dead Asses Kicking a Live Lion, 1874
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful and thought-provoking wood engraving by Thomas Nast. This image, now part of the New-York Historical Society's collection, was originally published in Harpers Weekly on May 16,1874. In this satirical political cartoon, Nast skillfully uses humor to convey his message about the state of American politics during that time. The central figure is a lion representing the United States, while surrounding it are dead donkeys symbolizing various politicians and statesmen. These lifeless asses are depicted kicking the live lion with great force. Nast's caricature serves as biting commentary on issues such as veto power, monetary policy, debt, inflation and leadership within Congress and America at large. Through this visual metaphor of dead asses attacking a living lion – an unlikely scenario in nature – Nast highlights the absurdity and dysfunctionality he perceived in American politics. This wood engraving not only showcases Nast's artistic talent but also demonstrates his ability to use satire to critique societal issues. It remains relevant today as it invites viewers to reflect upon the timeless themes of power struggles and political gamesmanship. As we observe "A General Blow Up - Dead Asses Kicking a Live Lion" we are reminded that art has always been an influential medium for expressing dissenting opinions and challenging established norms throughout history.
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