This original 1965 Soviet poster is a deeply moving representation of post-war resilience and renewal. The monochrome sketch-like illustration portrays a Soviet soldier, weary yet determined, planting a sapling—a poignant symbol of rebirth and hope after the devastation of World War II. His face, marked with age and hardship, speaks to the sacrifices made, while the rifle slung across his back reminds us of the war he has just survived.
The text reads:
"For the sake of life" (Во имя жизни),
with the bold "1945" marking the end of the war and the beginning of reconstruction. Unlike typical Soviet propaganda that glorifies strength and victory, this poster takes a more introspective and humanistic approach, emphasizing the soldier’s role in rebuilding rather than destroying.
The expressive cross-hatched lines and subdued color palette enhance the raw emotion of the piece, making it stand out among Soviet-era posters, which often favored bold colors and rigid realism. The choice of a sketch-like style mirrors the fragility of life and the tentative nature of rebuilding a nation from the ashes of war.
This masterpiece of Soviet wartime and post-war propaganda is a rare example of art that prioritizes reflection over heroism, acknowledging not just the triumph but the deep scars left by conflict. It serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of war and the enduring hope for peace.
USSR - War 39-45 - Russia - Peace
Good condition, creases, small tears
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