Macabre Dance Postcards

There is something extraordinarily creepy going on in both these macabre dance postcards by Alberto Martini of Treviso, Italy.  Something political, too. This is pre-WWI Europe in the sights of a caustic cartoonist who has entitled this series "Danza Macabra Europa."  "The Cavalier of the Prussian Army" is number 20, and number 24 is "The Peace Conference." Number 20 illustrates a self-flagellating monster, an action figure for the army of Prussia.  The other card shows a skeleton with a devil's tail holding up a horrid creature as a recognizable encouragement for the audience of leaders, from all parts of euro society. Am I reminded of the United Nations? I am definitely reminded of our political life today, the way the news media broadcasts fear, loathing and self-flagellation, where the talking heads of television take on the twisted cartoon guises of those in the postcard, while the dance of death proceeds apace on the podium. Welcome to humanity's past, then see it in action today.Looking for the perfect picture for your next project? This wild and wonderful vintage image and thousands more are available for license and reproduction at The Rucker Archive. For image consulting services contact Mark Rucker at Hello@TheRuckerArchive.com or 303-494-6715 US or 250-767-0087 CAN.Please share your comments below or share this blog with your friends on Facebook.