The 1977 original poster by Koukryniksy represents a classic example of Soviet Cold War satire, aimed squarely at NATO, known in French as OTAN (Organisation du Traité de l'Atlantique Nord). Created by the legendary Soviet artistic collective Koukryniksy, this poster critiques the alliance with their trademark sharp wit and biting imagery, underscoring the ideological tensions of the era.
Koukryniksy, a trio of artists—Mikhail Kupriyanov, Porfiry Krylov, and Nikolai Sokolov—were renowned for their political caricatures and propaganda works. Their art often relied on humor and exaggeration to ridicule opponents of the Soviet Union. This poster, with its satirical portrayal of NATO members undergoing a "shaving" process, alludes to the perceived exploitative practices of the alliance, particularly in the context of military expenditures.
The text in the poster translates to:
"NATO's ensnaring web: you can go bald in an instant."
At the bottom of the image, a collection pot marked "For military needs" sits filled with hair, symbolizing the financial sacrifices of NATO's members under the guise of defense spending.
This artwork illustrates how Koukryniksy combined humor, exaggeration, and keen visual storytelling to convey ideological messages. It captures the broader Soviet narrative of NATO as a costly and manipulative force, resonating with audiences in the USSR and beyond.
This poster stands as a testament to the power of art as a tool for political commentary, reflecting the charged geopolitical climate of the 1970s.
Original Poster
Caricature - USSR - Cold War
Very good condition
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