Combattez la tuberculose Circa 1920

This circa 1920 original poster by Rapeno, titled “Combattez la Tuberculose”, represents a critical moment in early 20th-century public health advocacy. In the wake of World War I, tuberculosis posed a significant health crisis across Europe, prompting governments and organizations to launch widespread campaigns to combat the disease. This poster served as a key communication tool in this effort, delivering a strong call to action for the general population.

The slogan “Combattez la Tuberculose” (Fight Tuberculosis) underscores the urgency of the message and reflects the period’s growing emphasis on collective responsibility in public health. The campaign likely aimed to educate the public on preventative measures, which included improved hygiene, proper nutrition, and early detection. During this era, public health authorities sought to bridge the gap between limited medical resources and the pressing need to curb the spread of infectious diseases, relying heavily on awareness campaigns like this one.

The poster also reflects broader historical trends of the time, including the rise of public health movements and the increasing use of mass communication to influence behavior. In the early 20th century, tuberculosis was not only a medical challenge but also a social and economic one, disproportionately affecting impoverished communities. As a result, campaigns like this emphasized a united effort to confront the disease, appealing to a sense of shared responsibility among citizens.

For collectors and historians, Rapeno’s work is a valuable artifact from an era when art and public health intersected in powerful ways. It speaks to the challenges faced by societies grappling with the spread of infectious diseases and the innovative methods employed to address them. The poster encapsulates the urgency and determination of public health movements during the early 20th century and remains a poignant reminder of the ongoing importance of health education and prevention.

This piece stands as a testament to the role of communication in shaping public attitudes and mobilizing action during a critical period in medical history. Its historical value makes it a noteworthy addition to any collection focused on vintage public health campaigns or early 20th-century societal challenges.

Medical - Hygiene - France

How it spreads

Printed by Devambez in Paris

Good condition, small tears