This interesting piece is part of a series on the "Ten Commandments" by Spanish artist Josep Renau (1907-1982). The photomontage series was published shortly after the formation of the Second Spanish Republic in the period leading up to the Spanish Civil War. This was a turbulent time for Spain, and Renau sought to satirize and criticize the hypocrisy of the conservative establishment, the Catholic church, imperialism, and the wealthy and powerful within Spanish society. The title translates as "Ninth Commandment: Thou shalt not covet the goods of others" and centers on a Chinese worker tied to a post, superimposed on a map of China. Surrounding him are fierce animals preparing to attack him, wearing top hats (a symbolism of capitalism) and carrying the flags of the countries they represent: an eagle for the US, a hyena for Japan, a snake for the Vatican, a crocodile for France, and a leopard for Great Britain. This composition criticizes the economic powers with their imperialist policies in Asia and particularly in China.

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Condition: B+

Light toning with pin holes in the top corners of the sheet.