Victory for our most orthodox emperor ! Circa 1920

The circa 1914 poster by Aleksandr Deineka titled Victory for Our Most Orthodox Emperor! reflects the spirit of Imperial Russia during the First World War. While primarily known for his later works under the Soviet regime, this earlier work by Deineka captures a moment of reverence and patriotism from the late Tsarist period.

The poster, marked by its evocative message and artistic composition, commemorates the era of Emperor Nicholas II, portraying a religious and ceremonial gathering. The text translates to, "Save, O Lord, Your people... Victory to our pious Emperor!"—a rallying cry that intertwines faith with the monarchy. This reflects the deeply ingrained relationship between the Russian Orthodox Church and the Romanov dynasty during the pre-revolutionary era.

This work captures a pivotal moment as Russia entered the tumult of the First World War. The poster embodies the duality of religious devotion and national pride, calling upon divine intervention for the success of the Tsar and his forces. By doing so, it sought to inspire unity and perseverance among the Russian people during a period of immense challenge and upheaval.

The artistic elements of the poster, characteristic of the early 20th century, echo the propagandistic style that blends narrative and symbolism. By focusing on a moment of religious solemnity and collective observance, Deineka elevates the Tsar's leadership to a divine mandate, a crucial element in garnering support for the war effort.

In historical context, the poster serves as a poignant artifact of the Russian Empire’s final years. The reverence for Nicholas II expressed here would later stand in stark contrast to the revolutionary upheaval that dismantled the monarchy just a few years later. For modern viewers, it offers a glimpse into the sentiments of loyalty, faith, and national identity that defined Russia before the seismic shifts of the 1917 Revolution.

Aleksandr Deineka, whose later works became synonymous with Soviet modernism, here demonstrates his ability to adapt his artistic vision to the prevailing cultural and political climate. This poster not only captures a historical moment but also reflects the propagandistic power of art to evoke emotion and allegiance in the face of national trials.

Original Poster

Religion - Propaganda - USSR

Good condition