1917 You Can Help American Red Cross Wladyslaw W.T. Benda Knitting Campaign WWI

Date: c. 1917

Artist: Benda, Władysław Teodor "W.T." 

Size (in): 30 x 20

Size (cm): 76 x 51

Condition: A-

Linen backed: No

This vintage original WWI poster was created by Polish-American artist Wladyslaw Teodor “W.T” Benda for the American Red Cross.   Benda came to the United States to visit his aunt, Hollywood actress Helena Modjeska, and ended up staying and becoming a naturalized American citizen in 1911.   Benda remained a strong advocate for his native Poland and Polish interests in the United States and produced wartime posters for both countries.   This poster, depicting a woman knitting, was issued in support of the American Red Cross “Knit Your Bit” campaign that began in 1917.   The effort called on Americans to help fill the urgent need for knitted goods such as socks and scarves for those called to serve.   The lower margin of the poster shows the printer imprint for Alco-Gravure, Inc. N.Y.   

This poster is an original antique in very good condition with just some light handling wear including faintly visible lateral crease.   Overall condition is very good.