U.N. (The United Nations) 1953

Herbert Lawrence Block, or Herblock as he was known, created this drawing of the UN building in pencil and crayon. This deceptively simple image offers a powerful commentary on the social and political climate of its time. The shadow cast by the Soviet Union looms large over the UN headquarters, symbolizing the country’s significant influence, but also the shadow it casts over world affairs. It implies a sense of dominance and perhaps even a threat to the UN's mission of peace and international cooperation. Created during the Cold War, this cartoon captures the tension between the US and the Soviet Union, reflecting the widespread fear and suspicion that defined this period. Block's work, often featured in the Washington Post, played a crucial role in shaping public opinion and challenging those in power. To fully grasp the depth of this artwork, one might delve into the history of the Cold War, the role of political cartoons in shaping public discourse, and the institutional history of the Washington Post. Understanding these contexts allows us to see how art serves as a mirror reflecting the complexities of its time.