And They Thought We Couldn't Fight - Victory Liberty Loan

When WWI broke out, American commercial art was still in its early stages; most artists were still classically trained painters. That painterly approach is clearly seen in this WWI poster by Clyde Forsythe for the American Victory Liberty Loan. The Impressionistic brushstrokes of the battlefield in the background give contrast to the battered, yet jubilant serviceman that stands before us. Note the three helmets in his hands, meant to represent the felled German enemy.

America's involvement in WWI was largely unanticipated, and quite expensive. The U.S. Government began soliciting bonds that everyday Americans could deposit to the cause, to be paid back by the government when the war ended with interest applied. This influx of cash flow allowed the US to buy tanks, feed soldiers, and essentially finance the path to victory.

Clyde Forsythe (1885-1962) was a Californian painter that worked within the Desert Painter School with artists such as Don Percival. When WWI broke out, Forsythe was working in commercial art in New York for magazines such as the Sunday Post. He produced many great images for the war effort, and would become a mentor of Norman Rockwell.

This is an Original Vintage Poster, not a reproduction. It has been archivally backed onto linen and is in excellent condition. We fully guarantee the authenticity of our items.