Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT THE ART
What makes the interpretations of these cartoons reliable?
The descriptions are grounded in each cartoon’s original historical context, the political moment it responded to, and the visual conventions used by Judge, Puck, and La Baïonnette. Modern interpretations are not imposed; each blurb reflects the meaning the artist and publication intended, as closely as the historical record allows. When contemporary parallels are noted, they’re presented as modern resonance—not as a reinterpretation of the cartoon’s original message.
Aren’t political cartoons subjective like other forms of art?
Where many art forms welcome broad interpretation, satire follows another logic. Political cartoons served as editorial interventions meant to land a precise point. Their meaning was crafted for instant recognition by contemporary audiences, not for interpretive guesswork.
How do you determine what a cartoon originally meant?
Interpretation relies on the labels, symbols, caricatures, and visual metaphors used by the artist, understood within the political and cultural climate of the publication date. These magazines employed recognizable visual codes that contemporary readers understood immediately, and those same cues guide the historical reading presented here.
Do you modernize or embellish the meaning of the cartoons?
No. If a cartoon feels timely, it is because the original satire addressed dynamics that continue to recur. The message is not updated, revised, or reframed; the description highlights what is already present in the historical source.
Do you alter or recreate the artwork?
AI, stock graphics, and synthetic imagery are not used. All images originate from vintage publications within a curated physical collection. Any added English caption for a French cartoon is intentionally minimal, clearly marked, and provided solely to support comprehension of the original message.
Why do so many of these old cartoons feel timely?
Because political patterns repeat. Themes like authoritarianism, censorship, corruption, manufactured crises, and self-serving narratives are perennial. The relevance comes from the past echoing into the present — not from any contemporary reinterpretation.
What is your overall approach to presenting these works?
Historical fidelity, artistic respect, and satirical clarity guide the presentation. The goal is to equip modern viewers with the context needed to understand the cartoons as their original audiences did, while keeping the artwork’s authentic voice intact.
ABOUT THE PRODUCT
Where do your products ship from?
Orders are printed and shipped by trusted U.S.-based production partners through Printify. This ensures consistent quality and efficient fulfillment.
Which countries do you ship to?
Shipping is available within the United States, Canada, and select international locations. Orders to the European Union are not available at this time.
How long does shipping take?
Most items are produced and dispatched within 3–5 business days. Delivery times vary by location, but U.S. orders typically arrive within 1–2 weeks. Holiday seasons may extend these timelines.
What if my item arrives damaged or incorrect?
If an order arrives damaged, misprinted, or incorrect, customers should submit a photo and order number within 30 days. A replacement request will be filed with the production partner, and a new item will be shipped at no cost.
Do you accept returns or exchanges?
Because all items are printed on demand, returns and exchanges for size, color, or preference are not available. Issues related to production errors or quality concerns are covered through the manufacturer’s replacement policy.
Are your mugs, totes, and apparel machine-washable?
Yes. All items produced through Printify use machine-washable materials and inks. Apparel is best washed inside-out in cold water to preserve print quality.
Will the product look exactly like the images on your site?
Slight variations may occur due to screen settings, print methods, and the original age of the artwork. The scans preserve the authentic texture and character of the vintage prints.
Can I request a custom size, caption, or product?
Custom orders are not available. Each illustration is formatted specifically for the products offered to ensure clarity and print quality.
Why do some images have visible aging or paper texture?
The imagery comes from genuine historical publications, and the natural texture of the original paper is intentionally preserved.
Are your items eco-friendly?
All products are printed on demand, reducing overproduction and waste. Only authentic vintage source materials are used—no AI or synthetic graphics.