Le permissionnaire Soldat! Prends chaque jour ta Quinine Circa 1915

The circa 1915 original poster by Albert Guillaume, titled Le Permissionnaire: Soldat! Prends chaque jour ta Quinine, is a striking example of wartime public health propaganda during World War I. Created by the celebrated French caricaturist and illustrator Albert Guillaume, this poster was aimed at encouraging French soldiers to protect their health by taking quinine—a key treatment and preventative measure against malaria and other febrile illnesses common in war zones.

The poster's dual message—"Il a mal pris sa Quinine" ("He poorly took his quinine") versus "Il a bien pris sa Quinine" ("He correctly took his quinine")—serves as both a cautionary tale and a directive. During this period, soldiers stationed in malaria-prone regions or returning from colonies faced significant health risks. Quinine, derived from the bark of the cinchona tree, was a vital medicine, and its proper administration was crucial for preventing debilitating illnesses.

Albert Guillaume, known for his sharp wit and expressive artistic style, likely utilized vivid character depictions to dramatize the consequences of neglecting or properly taking quinine. The contrast in outcomes would have been designed to resonate with soldiers, combining humor with a serious health directive. Such posters were instrumental in shaping behavior through memorable imagery and straightforward messaging.

This work not only reflects the medical priorities of the era but also underscores how art and propaganda intersected to address the practical needs of wartime populations. Guillaume’s ability to blend humor, clear instruction, and compelling visuals made his contributions to public health campaigns highly effective.

Today, this poster is a valuable historical artifact, offering insights into World War I-era medical practices, the role of artists in public health, and the broader cultural context of France during the Great War.

Original Poster

Medical - 14-18 - Advertising - France

He took his Quinine wrong, he took his Quinine right

Good condition