Works of art that express a sarcastic/edgy tone might depict characters as ridiculous, perhaps caricatured and shown behaving stupidly or destructively. Beyond representation, stylistic elements such as odd shapes, splotches of strong color, and/or crude paint application might lend a sarcastic/edgy feeling.

An artist might impart a sarcastic/edgy tone to a piece due to his or her own emotional state, or the artist might choose to evoke this tone as a reflection of the characters being portrayed. A sarcastic/edgy tone might also be adopted to suit a piece meant for a setting or purpose that demands an expression of ridicule.

Featured: The Plumb-pudding in Danger by James Gillray.