Banque de l'union parisienne pour que la France soit victorieuse comme à Valmy ! 1918

The 1918 original poster by Adolphe Willette, created for the Banque de l'Union Parisienne, is a compelling piece of wartime propaganda, urging citizens to contribute to the fourth national loan (4e Emprunt National). This poster, titled Pour que la France soit victorieuse comme à Valmy! (So that France may be victorious like at Valmy!), is a poignant call to action, blending historical reference with patriotic fervor to inspire public support during the final year of World War I.

Adolphe Willette, a prominent French painter, illustrator, and political cartoonist, was known for his evocative and often satirical works. During the war, artists like Willette played a crucial role in shaping public sentiment and encouraging national unity through their art. This particular poster exemplifies his ability to harness the power of visual storytelling to evoke a sense of duty and pride in the French populace.

The poster references the Battle of Valmy, a significant French victory during the Revolutionary Wars in 1792, which is often regarded as a turning point that helped secure the French Republic. By drawing a parallel between the contemporary struggle of World War I and the historic triumph at Valmy, Willette’s poster seeks to remind the French people of their resilience and past victories. The central image, rendered in a classic and detailed illustration style, depicts a resolute French soldier standing tall, with a young woman—symbolizing France herself—clinging to his side. In the background, troops march forward, embodying the collective spirit of the nation.

The emotional weight of the poster is carried through the expressions and posture of the figures. The soldier, standing as a protector and symbol of strength, exudes a calm determination. The young woman’s gaze is one of hope and reliance, reinforcing the message that the nation's future depends on the bravery and support of its people. The use of sepia tones and detailed linework lends the image a sense of timelessness, bridging the historical event of Valmy with the ongoing conflict of World War I.

The text on the poster is equally powerful. The phrase Pour que la France soit victorieuse comme à Valmy! draws a direct comparison between the historic victory and the desired outcome of the current war. Below, the call to action, Souscrivez tous au 4e Emprunt National (Subscribe to the fourth national loan), emphasizes the practical step that citizens can take to support the war effort. By investing in the national loan, the public could contribute financially to the country’s military campaigns, thereby playing a direct role in securing victory.

The Banque de l'Union Parisienne was one of the financial institutions involved in organizing and promoting these war loans. The bank's participation in such patriotic endeavors highlights the collaboration between the financial sector and the government during times of national crisis. Posters like Willette’s were essential in communicating the importance of these loans, making the concept tangible and relatable for the everyday citizen.

This poster is not merely a piece of propaganda; it is also a work of art that captures the mood and challenges of the era. It exemplifies how art was used as a tool to galvanize public support and instill a sense of shared purpose. The Battle of Valmy, as a symbol of French resilience and unity, served as an ideal historical touchstone to evoke a sense of continuity and national pride.

Today, the 1918 poster by Adolphe Willette is a valued piece of historical memorabilia, reflecting the intersection of art, history, and politics. It serves as a reminder of the critical role that visual media played in shaping public morale and mobilizing resources during one of the most challenging periods in modern history. The poster stands as a testament to the enduring power of imagery in conveying messages of hope, solidarity, and patriotism.

Original Poster

War - Economy - 14-18 - France

4th national loan

Printed by Devambez in Paris

Good condition, small tears