Illustration for Puck Magazine 1909

This illustration for Puck Magazine was made by Rodney Thomson, and it’s difficult to pin down its date. The ink on paper gives us a glimpse into the world of early 20th-century print media, where illustrations played a crucial role in shaping public opinion. The technique here, finely detailed line work, reminds us that this image was destined for reproduction on a printing press. Thomson’s skill lies in his ability to create depth and texture through hatching and cross-hatching. The lines bring the characters to life and convey the satirical tone of Puck magazine. The caricature of Shakespeare along with other figures makes an astute commentary on society. Understanding the labor and industrial processes behind this image gives us an appreciation of the artist's hand in the context of mass production. It challenges any traditional divide between high art and popular culture.