1919 The Spirit of America Red Cross Howard Chandler Christy

Date: 1919
Artist: Christy, Howard Chandler       
Size (in): 30” x 20”  
Size (cm): 76.2 x 50.8
Condition: B-
Linen backed: Yes

This antique original poster was created by noted illustrator Howard Chandler Christy for the American Red Cross in 1919 just after the end of the First World War.   This poster features one of the artist’s beloved “Christy Girls” that idealized a vision of feminine beauty and innocence in early 20th century America.  The Christy Girl on this poster is dressed as a Red Cross nurse holding an American flag under the title The Spirit Of America.   At the bottom of the image is the symbol of the Red Cross and the word “JOIN”.   The lower right corner has the logo of the printer, Forbes of Boston, and the lower left corner shows a copyright notice of the American Red Cross.   

This poster has been professionally linen backed recently and has some touch up and restoration including a small area of expertly replaced loss on the top edge at the center. Two long tears without paper loss on the top edge extending into the image area have been expertly repaired and a few creases on the edges mitigated.  The poster retains its original color and displays very nicely.