A dramatic original First World War colour lithograph by the celebrated illustrator J. Allen St. John, issued to promote Liberty Bonds through one of the most memorable and uncompromising images of American wartime propaganda.
Bibliographic Details
Artist: James Allen St. John (1875–1957).
Title: The Hun – His Mark. Blot it Out with Liberty Bonds.
Printer: Manz Engraving Co., Chicago.
Date: Circa 1917.
Medium: Original colour lithographic poster.
Signature: Signed in the plate lower left, "J. Allen St. John".
Size: Approximately 76.2 × 50.2 cm (30 × 19¾ inches).
Condition
Very Good condition. One horizontal crease across the lower portion. Short closed tear to the upper edge, professionally repaired on the reverse. Several small closed tears and edge nicks to the lower and left margins, likewise repaired from the reverse. General light creasing consistent with age and use. The reverse shows light age-toning, while the front retains bright colours and excellent display quality. The poster is supplied rolled for shipping, with flat packing available by prior arrangement.
Description
One of the most striking and emotionally charged American propaganda posters produced during the First World War, The Hun – His Mark was issued to encourage the purchase of Liberty Bonds, the public fundraising campaign that financed the United States' war effort following its entry into the conflict in 1917.
The design centres upon a vivid blood-red handprint accompanied by the powerful slogan "Blot it Out with Liberty Bonds." The image was intended to symbolise the destruction and atrocities attributed to Imperial Germany, transforming the purchase of war bonds into a patriotic act of national duty. Among Liberty Loan posters, it remains one of the most graphically arresting and psychologically effective designs produced during the conflict.
The artist, J. Allen St. John, would later achieve international recognition through his celebrated illustrations for the novels of Edgar Rice Burroughs, particularly the Tarzan and John Carter series. This poster represents an important early example of his work, demonstrating the bold visual storytelling that would later make him one of America's foremost illustrators.
Printed in Chicago by the Manz Engraving Company, this is a genuine contemporary First World War poster rather than a modern reproduction. Original Liberty Bonds posters of this quality have become increasingly sought after by collectors of military history, political propaganda and twentieth-century graphic design, particularly examples retaining strong colour and excellent display appeal.
Notes
An iconic American propaganda poster from the First World War, combining exceptional graphic impact with historical significance. Equally desirable to collectors of military history, political posters, vintage advertising, illustration and the work of J. Allen St. John.