Spotprent met minister Heemskerk en het vele werk dat nog op zijn bureau ligt, 1874 1874

This political cartoon was made in 1874 by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans. It’s an ink drawing on paper, a humble material used here to make a pointed comment on the state of Dutch politics. The artist uses the stark contrast of black ink on white paper to emphasize the overwhelming workload facing Minister Heemskerk. Notice the towering stack of papers labeled with pressing issues like "Railways" and "Waterways," each one representing countless hours of labor. The choice of a drawing, with its directness and immediacy, is itself significant. Unlike a painting, which might convey grandeur or prestige, this medium speaks to the everyday realities of governance. The artist’s hand is evident in every line, reminding us of the human effort—or lack thereof—behind policy decisions. Crans's cartoon challenges the traditional hierarchy between fine art and social commentary, using the tools of craft to engage with the politics of labor, responsibility, and public service.