Youri Gagarine 12 avril 1961 1976

This vibrant 1976 Soviet poster by F. Lukyanov commemorates one of the most celebrated moments of the 20th century: Yuri Gagarin’s historic space flight on 12 April 1961, when he became the first human to orbit the Earth. Gagarin’s smiling face, enclosed in his space helmet, dominates the upper half of the composition, radiating confidence, optimism, and the triumphant spirit associated with the achievement. Below, red stars and dynamic architectural silhouettes rise upward against a blue cosmic background, symbolising both national pride and humanity’s leap into space.

The poster belongs to a rich visual tradition of Soviet commemorative design celebrating milestones in science and technology. During the 1960s and 1970s, Gagarin became an icon not only of Soviet achievement but of global progress, and posters like this one helped shape his heroic image. The striking contrast of red and blue, the upward thrust of lines, and the celestial imagery reinforce themes of aspiration, victory, and a future defined by exploration. The date 12 April 1961 is placed prominently, transforming the image into both tribute and historical marker.

Beyond its celebratory purpose, the poster reflects how the Soviet Union used graphic art to communicate pride, unity, and ideological confidence during the Space Age. Today, it stands as a beautiful and evocative artifact from that era—capturing not only Gagarin’s legendary smile, but also the excitement, ambition, and cultural significance of the world’s first human journey into space.

Original Poster

Space - Communism - USSR - Russia

Printed in Moscow

Good condition