Le soleil se lève de nos mains Circa 1970

This original Chinese propaganda poster, likely produced during the later years of the Cultural Revolution (1966–1976) or shortly after, is a striking example of the graphic and symbolic art style used to inspire revolutionary fervor and unity among the populace. The poster serves as both an artistic representation and a political message, encapsulating the ideals of collectivism, progress, and revolutionary optimism.

The poster uses a bold, minimalist color scheme of black and red on a tan background, common to Chinese woodblock prints. At the center is the figure of a young woman with strong, determined features, wearing a headscarf and depicted in black and white. Behind her shoulder, a rifle is slung, symbolizing her readiness to defend the revolutionary cause. Her expression is serene yet resolute, embodying the qualities of a loyal and idealistic revolutionary.

In her hands, she holds a glowing, radiant sun that seems to rise from a field of seeds or grain. The image of the rising sun, a common symbol in Chinese revolutionary art, represents hope, a bright future, and the promise of socialism. The glowing sun also conveys the idea of progress being cultivated by the hands of the people.

Below the central image, bold red Chinese text reads:

"太阳从我们手中升起"

This translates to:

"The sun rises from our hands."

The text reinforces the poster's core message: the people, through their collective effort, are the driving force behind China's prosperity, revolution, and future.

This poster belongs to the visual lexicon of the Chinese Cultural Revolution, a period marked by Mao Zedong's push to solidify socialism through radical social, cultural, and political change. The Cultural Revolution heavily relied on visual propaganda to galvanize public support, promote unity, and spread the values of hard work, self-reliance, and revolutionary spirit.

The poster’s focus on a woman aligns with the egalitarian ideals promoted by the Communist Party during this period, which sought to uplift women as equals in building the nation. By portraying a female figure holding the sun—symbolizing hope and renewal—it conveys a progressive, inclusive vision of China’s future.

The rifle slung over her shoulder serves as a reminder of the revolutionary struggle, reinforcing the idea that progress requires vigilance and defense against both internal and external threats to socialism.

The poster reflects the influence of traditional Chinese woodblock printing in its bold, high-contrast imagery and simplified forms. The use of black and red conveys both urgency and a sense of optimism, drawing attention to the central figure and the glowing symbol of the sun. The composition is designed to communicate its message quickly and effectively, ensuring it resonates with a wide audience, from rural farmers to urban workers.

Politics - Propaganda - China

Good condition