What is the caricaturist trying to depict?

The caricaturist is trying to depict the condition of conservative autocratic regime that did not look positively towards the modernism and liberty. The inscription on the board and plaque are satire aiming at how the thinking and speaking about ideas of freedom and liberty are banned. Muzzles in the caricature show that the autocratic government was oppressive as no one was allowed to put forth any idea related to liberty. Books, newspapers, plays and songs were also censored.