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U.S. Marines Antique WWI Poster, "If You Want to Fight! / Join the Marines" 1915

About the Item

Presented is an original "If You Want to Fight! / Join the Marines" World War I poster by Howard Chandler Christy from 1915. This taunting and daring recruitment poster urges the public to join the Marines. The work features the artist's signature in the lithograph stone, as well as a stunning depiction of a woman dressed in a Marines uniform at center. Christy played with the idea of confusing gender roles, as shown here with a woman pictured in a traditionally masculine role. This aimed to seduce men into joining the service. Howard Chandler Christy (1872-1952) was an illustrator whose work appeared in countless magazines, books, and posters. Christy's subjects ranged from romantic interludes in high-society New York to historic battles on the Scottish Highlands. His female depictions became so well known that they were dubbed "the Christy Girl," whose lovely face and form graced magazine covers, sold Christy-style apparel, and convinced young men to join the Navy and Marines in World Wars I and II. He did most of his book illustrations from 1895-1920 but turned almost completely to painting portraits after 1921. His posters are some of the most famous and iconic of their time. Condition: Good condition. Free of any significant tears. Some mildly visible fold lines and slight color losses along creases. Fading to orange "Fight!" lettering and slightly at bottom third of work. The work has been framed according to the highest conservation standards in a custom black and gold frame.
  • Creator:
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 46.5 in (118.11 cm)Width: 36 in (91.44 cm)Depth: 2 in (5.08 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
    1910-1919
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1915
  • Condition:
    Additions or alterations made to the original: Framed according to archival standards. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. Good condition. Free of any significant tears. Some mildly visible fold lines and slight color losses along creases. Fading to orange "Fight!" lettering and slightly at bottom third of work.
  • Seller Location:
    Colorado Springs, CO
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: P2361stDibs: LU909717498711
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