Guardian WW1 Posters

An collection of First World War propaganda posters were given away in yesterday's Guardian. It is interesting to compare the various examples visually; I feel they outline some very distinctive, individual characteristics in their mood, colour, composition, use of language and typography, as well as reflecting respective contemporary artistic styles. All are strong rallying calls, some perhaps with more nationalistic fervour than others.


"Russia - 1917 - Red Navy propaganda poster: 'Long live the vanguard of the revolution'" - Stark, strong composition with simple, comprehensive application of colour (similar to modern tabloids: red, black, white). Hand-made, skill and craft. Futurist.


"Britain - 1913-1918 - Army poster depicting a German zeppelin over London" - Straightforward, bold, resolute, realistic (suggestion of a dreaded future scenario) No-nonsense and strong; facing facts, painting a picture, do something about it.


"US - 1918 - Government poster advertising bonds to finance the American war effort" - Bright, confident, assured; stripes of flag on Uncle Sam's trouser leg. Powerful. Smart leather boot stamping down from above; might, force, overwhelming.


"France - 1918 - Poster for a Parisian Bank aimed at English investors, 'Allied in War, United in Peace'" - Decadent, libertarian, free. Artistic, intellectual; decorative and elegant style


"Germany - 1917 - 'The Kaiser and his people thank the Army and Navy; Christmas gifts from Frankfurt'" - Clean, focussed, determined. Clinical, impersonal (eyes of soldiers masked)