Different Country Caricatures
The caricature is an illustrated exaggeration of stereotypes intended for humor or political satire, and can spark intense debate. Instant reads are essential to communicate a thought--or a nationality in this form of art--and often the artist goes for the shock of a controversial association.
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History
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It is vital, when studying the art of caricature, to not divorce the illustrative work from its historical significance. History is the teacher in the world of caricature, and without a broad understanding its history it is impossible to approach such controversy in a sophisticated manner.
France
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Caricature can be a dangerous way to take a stand. In 1830s France, comparing King Louis-Philippe's shape to that of a pear landed artist Honore Daumier in jail, and sparked enough controversy to pass the September Laws, forcing artists and writers out of politics.
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Germany
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Caricatures can provide important political satire and/or commentary, as Al Hirschfeld showed as early as 1933 in his depictions of Adolf Hitler. Unfortunately, Germany has had to endure subsequent caricatures using the same images in an excessively inappropriate manner.
America
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Sometimes caricatures can demonstrate a point by referencing comparisons, such as 19th century American artist Thomas Nast comparing the "Massacre of the Innocents" (New Orleans, 1866) to the Roman lust for blood in sport. The United States traditionally holds even such controversial expressions of our freedom of speech in high regard.
Japan
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Despite its best intentions, America's freedom of speech can result in ugly caricatures. Japanese stereotypes, such as Mickey Rooney's infamous Mr. Yunioshi, are among the most controversial and recognizable racial caricatures of our time.
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