De Notenkraker, 25 mei 1907 / De Oostenrijksche zege Possibly 1907

Editor: Here we have a political poster from 1907 titled "De Oostenrijksche zege," or "The Austrian Victory" by Albert Hahn, printed in "De Notenkraker," a Dutch satirical magazine. I'm immediately struck by the stark contrast and the almost comical depiction of the man sweeping away what looks like rats. What do you see in this piece, and how do you think it spoke to its audience at the time? Curator: Oh, this takes me back. This isn't just sweeping, darling; it's revolutionary hygiene! Hahn masterfully uses caricature. See the fierce look on the man’s face? He embodies the Social Democratic movement, cleaning out the "Augias stable" of parliament, teeming with corruption—those "rats," cleverly rendered, are the politicians. Symbolism drips from this; it's not just art, it’s activism, reflecting the zeitgeist of a restless populace. Doesn’t it make you want to grab a broom yourself and start…tidying? Editor: Absolutely! The rats as politicians is a brilliant, if slightly terrifying, visual metaphor. Do you think the Art Nouveau style it's done in helps or hinders the message? Curator: Hinder? Never! The strong lines and stark composition amplify its directness. While Art Nouveau often embraces the ornate, Hahn uses it here with ruthless efficiency. The cleanliness of line emphasizes the… well, *cleanliness* he's after. This piece is more than a pretty picture, you see. It's a gut punch. It *crackles* with rebellious energy! Do you feel the crackle? Editor: I do, now that you point it out. I hadn't considered how effectively the style serves the political message. It's powerful! Curator: Indeed. Hahn gave the people not just an image, but a mirror, reflecting both their frustrations and their power to change things. Editor: Thanks, I'm walking away with a new appreciation for how effective political art can be, especially when wit and style are used in its favour. Curator: My dear, that is the magic, isn't it? The intersection of beauty, rebellion, and a well-aimed broom.