Puck Magazine Illustration “Mars Triumphant” – 1904

There are no periodicals like Puck Magazine today.

The weekly political, satirical and humor magazine was in business from 1876-1918. A main feature of the magazine was a chromolithograph centerfold usually relating to events of the day.

Our illustration is from the February 25, 1904 issue and drawn by Udo Keppler (1872-1956). The clouds of war hover over the sky as Mars the God of War sits triumphant as the Angel representing Peace flees while cradling a dove.

The drawing contains several other symbols such as, the sunbeam casting light upon Mars,  the sword in Mars’ lap and broken olive branch on the ground at center.

After coming across this colorful picture, a typical reader in 1904 rather than quickly turning the page, would have taken the time to notice these and other details. They would also recognize what they refer to.

Mars foot rests on a torn page that reads, Hague Peace Conference.

The Hague Peace Convention of 1899 was an international meeting to establish laws and customs of war along with rules for treaties and peace between nations. There would be a second Hague Convention in 1907.

The illustration refers to the Russo-Japanese War which began in February 1904 and would last until September 5, 1905. It was the first major war of the century.

Throughout the twentieth and twenty-first century Mars remains triumphant.