Chaque ferme collective a besoin d'un élevage de volailles ! 1947

This vivid agricultural poster from 1947 illustrates an important theme in early postwar Soviet propaganda: the modernization and expansion of collective agriculture. At its center stand a proud rooster and hen surrounded by chicks, symbolizing fertility, abundance, and the promise of agricultural productivity. Behind them stretches a bright pastoral landscape filled with poultry, suggesting a thriving collective farm where livestock production contributes to national prosperity.

The slogan printed at the bottom reads “Каждому колхозу — птицеводческую ферму!”. A direct translation would be “A poultry farm for every kolkhoz!”. The word kolkhoz refers to a Soviet collective farm—an agricultural enterprise where land and production were organized collectively under the socialist system.

The imagery reflects this objective clearly. The oversized rooster and hen dominate the foreground, visually elevating poultry farming as a symbol of rural success. Their confident stance suggests strength and vitality, while the chicks gathered at their feet represent continuity and growth. The lush green fields and distant farm buildings reinforce the idealized vision of Soviet agriculture.

During the late 1940s, posters like this played an important role in encouraging rural development and increased food production following the devastation of World War II. The Soviet government promoted agricultural diversification—especially poultry, dairy, and livestock—as a way to improve food supply and strengthen the collective farming system.

Beyond its political message, the poster is notable for its painterly style and bright natural palette. Unlike the dramatic heroic imagery often seen in political propaganda, this work draws on the familiar imagery of rural life. The friendly, almost idyllic scene makes the message approachable and optimistic, presenting agricultural policy as part of a harmonious and prosperous countryside.

Today, such posters offer a fascinating glimpse into how visual culture was used to shape everyday economic goals and communicate state priorities to farmers across the Soviet Union.

Original Poster

Agriculture - USSR - Propaganda

Printed in Russia

Good condition, one tear has been repaired.