Spotprent op de afschaffing van het zegel op gedrukte stukken, 1868 1867

This is a caricature made in 1868 by Johan Michaël Schmidt Crans, rendered in ink on paper. The composition is structured around a table laden with coins and documents. A seated figure, labeled as "Vrouw Zegel" or Mrs. Seal, occupies the left, her form exaggerated to emphasize her resistance to change. The visual structure cleverly uses contrasting elements. Note the stark difference between the cluttered table and the imposing figure of the officer. The papers in the background are arranged in neat rows, in contrast to the more organic shapes of the sitting character, indicating that it is a matter of progress versus backwardness. The linear style is typical of satirical prints, yet here, it also suggests an attempt to bring order to chaos, mirroring the cartoon's theme of abolishing the stamp tax. Ultimately, the cartoon challenges the fixed meanings attached to fiscal policy, using distortion to advocate for societal advancement. By juxtaposing this image with the philosophical discourse of progress, we can recognize the artwork's historical function as a prompt for broader social discourse.