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Poster shows a blacksmith holding a raised hammer, about to strike a snake with flames
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Poster shows a blacksmith holding a raised hammer, about to strike a snake with flames
Poster shows a blacksmith holding a raised hammer, about to strike a snake with flames erupting from its mouth: in background smokestacks. Text: Work, the protection against anarchy. Munich 1919
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Media ID 9755837
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1919 Anti Communist Background Blacksmith Erupting Flames German Germany Hammer Mouth Munich Poster Propaganda Protection Raised Snake Strike Text Twentieth Century Work Anarchy Smokestacks
EDITORS COMMENTS
This powerful poster from Munich, Germany in 1919 captures the essence of a nation on the brink of chaos. The image portrays a blacksmith, his muscles taut and hammer raised high, ready to strike down a menacing snake engulfed in flames. In the background, smokestacks billow dark clouds into an already ominous sky. The text boldly declares "Work, the protection against anarchy" emphasizing the importance of labor as a shield against societal collapse. This piece was created during a time when Germany faced political turmoil and rising tensions following World War I. With its striking visuals and strong message, this German propaganda poster aimed to rally citizens against anarchic forces threatening their society. It sought to instill a sense of unity and purpose by highlighting work as not only essential for survival but also as a means to combat potential chaos. In this context, the snake symbolizes disorder and destruction while the blacksmith represents hardworking individuals who can forge stability through their labor. The flames erupting from the snake's mouth further emphasize its threat to social order. As we delve into this artwork from early 20th century Germany, it serves as both historical documentation and testament to how art was used as a tool for shaping public opinion during times of uncertainty.
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