Maxi the Ichthyosaurus Turned Man 1907

Moriz Jung created this poster, ‘Maxi the Ichthyosaurus Turned Man’, with lithography, a printmaking process that allows for strong lines and flat areas of color. It’s undated, but was likely made in Vienna around 1908. The image, with its bold outlines, simplified shapes, and decorative border, reflects the influence of the Vienna Secession, a group of artists and designers who rejected the conservative artistic establishment. The Secession sought to create a ‘total work of art’ that broke down the boundaries between fine and applied arts. Here, Jung uses a playful image of a mythological creature to advertise what is likely a cabaret act. The ichthyosaur, a marine reptile, becomes a symbol of transformation and entertainment. This reflects the Secession's belief in the power of art to disrupt traditional hierarchies and promote social change. To truly understand the context of this artwork, we might consult exhibition catalogs and period publications. These primary sources can illuminate the social and institutional networks that shaped the production and reception of art in Vienna at the turn of the century.