The Great War anthropomorphic memorabilia. [A Map of Modern Europe in Faces] Karta sovremennoy Evropy v litsakh.

The Great War anthropomorphic memorabilia. [A Map of Modern Europe in Faces] Karta sovremennoy Evropy v litsakh. Postcard.

Moscow: Safronov, Prydilchikov & Co, 1914.

Original multi-color lithograph. Creased, dusted, yellowed; edges lightly worn. Overall in good condition.

A World War I propaganda piece featuring a caricaturistic depiction of Europe, portraying each country’s attitude towards the impending war in a joking, cartoonish manner. The map on the front of the card is accompanied by a poem on the back, explaining the image details in simplistic, memorable rhymes.

Germany is described as an old (female) warrior nudging Austria into its side, while Austria is sending frightened glances towards Serbia, who has a small as a dime, yet strong fist. The countries avoiding conflict are portrayed as a slithering fish (Romania), a dame with a flower bouquet (Italy), a scared bear (Switzerland), etc.

Allies of the Russian Empire are depicted in a more complimentary manner. England is not wasting time and sending the navy, while France is letting her eaglets loose on Germany. Belgium even gets rewarded with a laurel wreath for its bravery.

Russia itself is portrayed as a fine, large man, good-humored and strong. It is stated that he is amiable for now, but if he gets angry it will be bad. The poem ends with a request for Germany: [Germany! Don’t get on the guy’s nerves, / Hurry up - and get away, / Or else his teeth / Will tear you into pieces!].