The easiest way out of it

Frank Arthur Nankivell

1911

The easiest way out of it by Frank Arthur Nankivell, 1911

Frank Nankivell serves up a spicy slice of political satire on this 1911 cover of *Puck* magazine, depicting Senator William Lorimer dressed in traditional Japanese garb. He sits in a tatami room with the U.S. Capitol dome looming through the window, looking distressed as he faces a tray holding a sword. The sword's handle is wrapped in a rope labeled 'Political' and the blade reads 'Hara-Kiri,' with a tag attached saying 'Resign'—a clever visual pun equating political resignation with ritual suicide. This witty commentary on the 'Lorimer Case' bribery scandal suggests that stepping down was the only honorable exit left for the embattled politician.

Related Artworks