Nice example of the large format version of this 1918 lithographic poster by Alfred Everitt Orr, entitled "For Home and Country Victory Liberty Loan," intended to promote the sale of war bonds through the Victory Liberty Loan campaign.
This work features a soldier in uniform, embraced by a child and flanked by a woman holding his medal, symbolizing the return to the domestic peace of the home front after service.
The composition centers on the soldier’s homecoming, an intimate moment that reflects the broader national sentiment of relief and reuniting families following World War I. The presence of the medal indicates recognition of service, adding a layer of depth to the narrative of sacrifice and commitment.
This piece situates itself in the context of post-war America, wherein the government called upon its citizens to participate in the financial consolidation of war expenses through bond purchases. The Victory Liberty Loan campaign represented the collective financial efforts required to sustain the country’s wartime and post-war economic stability.
The poster was also issued in a half size edition (approximately 20 x 30 inches), as well as the present larger edition, which is approximately twice the size.
Alfred Everett Orr was a distinguished painter born on January 6, 1886, in New York City.
Orr's career saw him active in the San Gabriel Valley, California, between 1918 and 1925. After his time in California, he moved to London, where he took residence in the former studio of the renowned artist John Singer Sargent.
Orr's work gained the financial backing of Sir Charles Higham, a notable figure in the English advertising world, who spoke highly of Orr's talent. In addition to his other artistic contributions, Alfred E. Orr created six cover illustrations for "The Saturday Evening Post," a testament to his commercial and artistic success.