L’EMPRUNT DE LA PAIX — HENRI LEBASQUE — c.1920

Original French poster issued for the postwar reconstruction loan, L’Emprunt de la Paix, encouraging citizens to subscribe to bonds financing the rebuilding of France after the First World War. The composition by Henry Lebasque contrasts a peaceful domestic scene in the foreground with workers, construction activity, factories, and smoke rising from industrial plants in the background. The family scene with the mother and child symbolizes the future generations of France, while the rebuilding and industrial landscape represents national recovery and reconstruction.

Henry Lebasque was an established French painter associated with Post-Impressionism and closely connected to the circle of artists around Pierre Bonnard and Edouard Vuillard. Like a number of prominent artists of the period, he contributed designs for public campaigns following the war. Posters such as this were part of a broader national effort encouraging citizens to invest in government bonds to finance rebuilding and economic recovery.

Artist: Lebasque, Henri
Printer: Imp. Maquet, Paris
Size: 31 x 47 inches / 80 x 120 cm
On / Off Linen: On linen
Print Technique: Lithograph
Year: c.1920
Condition & Comments: Excellent condition.