Simplicissimus - Bulldog

GMD 105, Reflection Notes, Image Review

Graphic Design History. Jules Hayward, October 18, 2022.

INTRODUCTION
This image caught my eye because of the minimalistic design
of the stark red bulldog on the dull black background with the
broken chain falling off of its neck to the ground. The text above
it drew my eyes in as I passed by, and after reading the message
behind the image, I knew that this was the one. I was hooked.
Satire is one of my favourite ways of expressing one’s opinion,
as it utilizes humour and irony to criticize and make fun of
ridiculous views. It allows for further discussion, whereas more
confrontational approaches such as bluntness or brutal
honesty often led to arguments and disastrous outcomes.
The fact that there was a satirical magazine that was published
frequently against opposition made me want to sit down and
read more about it.
I believe that satire is an important tool that we can use to raise
awareness for causes that would otherwise be passed by, and
helps us to face unpleasant topics more willingly.

BACKGROUND
This startling image was produced by a satirical magazine that was published weekly in Munich, Germa-
ny founded by Thomas Heine (artist) and Albert Langen (publisher). It often targeted Prussian military
figures and archaic German social constraints of commoners vs sovereigns.
Examples of talented writers that Albert Langen collaberated with were Thomas Mann, Frank Wedekind
and Rainer Maria Rilke.
The magazine was largely tolerated, yet often faced censorship and backlash, such as when a cover was
released mocking Kaiser Wilhelm’s religious journey to Palestine. This resulted in imprisonment and fines
for the writers and editors, along with the charge of lèse-majesté, or “offending the sovereign”.
This unexpectedly boosted the magazine’s popularity, however, causing spikes in circulation of editions.
Albert Langen did not let the censorship hold him back, as he continued to produce many more satirical
cartoons.
The Simplicissimus magazine differed from many others of its time, as it relied on graphic cartoons and
heavily modern themes and bright colours to showcase the topics it chose. It was to become a pioneer in
stepping away from traditional publications that focused on topics such as classical mythology.

COLOURS
The red chosen for the bulldog is an intense colour, intended to catch your attention and visually
emphasizes the passion behind the artwork. It’s interesting that the artist chose red for such a contro-
versial topic at that time, as it can actually have a physical effect on the viewers, such as raising blood
pressure and respiratory rates. The creators weren’t kidding around! They knew exactly what they were
doing.
The black background is symbolic of authority, power, and sophistication, which I see as representing
the German authorities at the time. I enjoy how simple yet powerful the contrast between the two main
colours are, which becomes an excellent representation of the magazine itself.
The white highlights of the text, eyes, and chain add a cold shock value, creating an altogether stunning
effect.
COMPOSITION
The bulldog represents the common folk, or the Volk, while the stark background excellently depicts the
harsh unforgivingness of the gentry and aristocrats of German society. The eyes are accusing and hard,
creating a feeling of disapproval, while the broken white chain represents the fact that lower class citizens
were standing up for their rights against the bondage and oppression that they were under during the
Weimar period, otherwise known as the German Reich.
It is no wonder that this was called the mascot of the Simplicissimus magazine, as this illustration
perfectly characterized the intent of Albert Langen and Thomas Heine.

CONCLUSION
The Simplicissimus magazine was largely considered immoral and seditious, and always confronted
controversial topics. It was never consistent, but it was never afraid of how it was received. It never
apologized for its views and representations, which was sorely needed in that day and age. Indeed, such
honesty is still necessary in political media, as one of the most dagerous sins that a people can commit is
creating an echochamber.
Reviewing history in detail is imperative for growth, as how will we learn from our ancestor’s mistakes
without being willing to change?
World War 2 eventually led to the cessation of the magazine, but it still left an indelible impression and
influence upon the world of arts and media.

Sources:
https://spartacus-educational.com/ARTsimplic.htm
https://illustrationage.com/2019/07/02/turn-back-the-pages-simplicissimus-magazine/
https://www.palbergwerx.com/single-post/2014/08/20/simplicissimus-a-red-bulldog-stares-menacing-
ly-through-stonecold-white-eyes
https://www.smashingmagazine.com/2010/01/color-theory-for-designers-part-1-the-meaning-of-color/#:~:tex-
t=It’s%20associated%20with%20fire%2C%20violence,blood%20pressure%20and%20respiration%20rates.
https://www.oberlo.ca/blog/color-psychology-color-meanings#:~:text=In%20color%20psychology%2C%20
black’s%20color,used%20black%20in%20their%20logos.