About this poster:
This vintage World War II poster, created in 1944, features a striking and direct message to the American public on the home front. The dominant image is a close-up portrait of an American soldier in full gear, his face showing the grit and solemnity of combat. He stares directly at the viewer, creating an intense and personal connection. Above him, the bold yellow text asks the poignant question, "ARE YOU PLAYING SQUARE?", a colloquialism for acting honestly and fairly.
Below the soldier's imposing figure, a contrasting scene unfolds at a gas station. A civilian in a classic 1940s automobile is getting his tank filled, a scene that directly addresses the poster's theme of gasoline rationing. The glowing gas pump emphasizes the preciousness of fuel during the war. This juxtaposition serves as a powerful reminder that actions at home, such as adhering to rationing, directly impact the war effort and the soldiers fighting overseas. The poster effectively uses guilt and a sense of patriotic duty to encourage compliance with wartime restrictions.
This poster was produced for the U.S. Office of Price Administration (OPA) and the Office of War Information (OWI). The OPA was the federal agency tasked with establishing and administering price controls and rationing programs during World War II. Rationing was essential to manage shortages and ensure that vital resources like gasoline, tires, food, and other materials were available for military use. This artwork by Dean Cornwell is a quintessential example of American wartime propaganda, designed to unite the country and mobilize public support for the sacrifices required to achieve victory.
Our World War II reproduction posters capture the powerful messaging and patriotic spirit of a defining global conflict. These images were instrumental in mobilizing entire nations, conveying crucial messages about recruitment, war bonds, industrial production, and home front conservation. Each poster reflects the artistic styles and persuasive tactics of the era, from bold, graphic designs to emotionally charged appeals. Professionally printed by Lumber City Prints on premium quality 230gsm Matte Photo Paper, these reproductions are a stunning tribute to the art of persuasion and a pivotal period in world history.
Please note: This listing is for the reproduction print only, frames are NOT included.
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About Lumber City Prints
Lumber City Prints produces fine art prints using archival quality inks and professional Canon and Epson print equipment.
Our collection of vintage images is carefully edited to repair damage, improve color quality, adjust size, and prepare for printing.
Our source images are at least 300dpi to produce each print as accurately as the original.
The resolution we print at is much higher quality than what is generally shown in previews.
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