The work of Hal Eyre, borrowed from the State Library of NSW, will go on show at Cessnock Library in April.

Eyre, who died in 1946, depicted the lead-up to and aftermath of the Great War in his work.

His career included a stint as the cartoonist for Sydney’s Daily Telegraph newspaper from 1908. 

The library’s display will show 10 panels featuring 20 reproduced cartoons that literally depict the debates and controversies at the turn of the century.

Eyre used the visual medium to satirise themes of national identity and political power.

 “Cartoons provide valuable social commentary on key historical events and Hal Eyre was one of the most important social commentators on the war,” Cessnock City Library services coordinator Rose-marie Walters said.

Through a modern lens, Ms Walters said it was important to remember the cartoons were products of their time.

“He used animals as metaphors for nation-states and drew fascinating caricatures of well-known European and Australian leaders,” Ms Walters said. 

“Enemy nations were often represented as prevailing racial stereotypes.”

The cartoons have been displayed in libraries all around the state as part of a two-year tour.

The works will be on display at Cessnock Library from April 14 to 26 before moving on to Singleton.