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Description

This poster, titled "Blood or Bread," was created by Henry Patrick Raleigh in 1917 for the United States Food Administration during World War I. It features a dramatic and emotive image of a soldier at war, conveying a sense of sacrifice and urgency. The bold central message, "Others are giving their blood," directly appeals to Americans to contribute to the war effort by conserving food, specifically grains needed for export to Europe. 

The artwork portrays a muscular, bare-chested soldier in a heroic pose, silhouetted against a dark and tumultuous battlefield. His expression, illuminated by contrasting light, captures a mixture of resolve and sacrifice, reinforcing the moral weight of the poster’s appeal. The muted, earthy tones highlight the soldier's environment, while the text in bold red and white stands out, emphasizing the dichotomy of "Blood or Bread."

During World War I, the U.S. Food Administration launched campaigns to address the dire need for food resources in Europe, where Allied forces and civilian populations were struggling due to war-induced shortages. Posters like this were part of a larger initiative to encourage Americans to adopt food conservation measures, such as eating less wheat and meat, avoiding waste, and embracing the "doctrine of the clean plate." This effort aimed to redirect surplus food to support the war effort overseas. 

Henry Patrick Raleigh, a prominent illustrator known for his work in The Saturday Evening Post and other publications, used his artistic talent to contribute to the national cause. His ability to convey powerful messages through evocative imagery made him a valuable contributor to propaganda campaigns during the war. This poster exemplifies his skill in combining strong visuals with compelling calls to action. 

Condition Description
Linen backed