Group of Fifty-One Russian Anti-Semitic and Anti-Bolshevik Caricature Lithographs

[Dvigubsky, Serge Grigorievich], illustrator

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A collection of 51 lithographs featuring text in Russian, English, French, and German. The dimensions vary approximately from 9 x 14 to 10 x 15 cm, with a single one measured 7 x 9 cm. Though their dimensions evoke the traditional size of postcards, it is notable that certain lithographs within this collection lack the customary designated areas for stamps or written messages on the reverse side. Instead, they resemble leaflets, suggesting an alternative purpose or intended usage. This departure from conventional postcard design implies a deliberate choice by the artist or publisher, perhaps indicating a desire for these lithographs to function more as standalone visual propaganda or educational materials rather than as correspondence tools. This deviation in format adds another layer of intrigue to the collection, prompting speculation about the intended audience and the specific messaging strategy employed by the creator. Originating from an unidentified publisher, these lithographs carry significant historical weight, reflecting themes of anti-Semitism and anti-Soviet sentiment prevalent during the era. The lithographs, presumably attributed to the hand of Serge Grigorievich Dvigubsky (1897-1986), a multifaceted artist and military figure, these lithographs serve as poignant artifacts of their time. Dvigubsky's life journey, spanning from service in the White Army to settling in France, adds depth to the historical context surrounding his work. In these caricatures, the artist's intention was clear: to perpetuate deeply ingrained anti-Semitic sentiments while intertwining them with anti-Soviet propaganda, thereby vilifying both Jews and proponents of Soviet ideology. One particularly striking example is the depiction titled "Lev Trotsky's Coat of Arms," wherein the artist amalgamates anti-Semitic and anti-Soviet symbolism. Here, two stereotypical Jewish figures are situated between a Star of David labeled with "the Talmud" and beneath a Soviet hammer and sickle, insinuating a perceived alignment between Soviet communism and Jewish religious beliefs. By specifically associating these images with Leon Trotsky, a prominent figure in the Bolshevik movement, the artist effectively connects anti-Semitic rhetoric with the Bolshevik cause, thereby implicating Jewish individuals in the perceived threat of communist domination. Another compelling example within these caricatures is the portrayal of a malevolent vulture bearing a human-like head adorned with Jewish features and crowned with the Star of David. This sinister creature is depicted soaring above a harrowing scene of devastation, with a mound of lifeless bodies below and the distinctive onion-shaped domes of Russian Orthodox churches in the background. The inscription accompanying this image, "Above Communist Heaven," further reinforces the conflation of Jewish identity with communist ideology, perpetuating the notion of a malevolent Jewish-Soviet alliance. Through these meticulously crafted caricatures, the artist not only dehumanizes Jewish individuals but also advances the narrative of a pervasive Judeo-Masonic/Communist conspiracy, thereby fueling existing prejudices and amplifying fears of perceived threats to societal order. Highly evocative and historically significant, these lithographs represent a rare glimpse into a tumultuous period of ideological conflict and societal upheaval. With only scant information available about their creator and origin, they stand as a testament to Dvigubsky's enduring legacy as an artist and commentator on the complexities of his era. * Disclosure: The sale of these lithographs is for historical and educational purposes only. They are being offered as artifacts of a bygone era and not as a promotion of the sentiments they depict. Buyers are encouraged to consider the sensitive nature of the content and the importance of preserving historical artifacts for educational purposes. These lithographs may contain imagery or messaging that re.

N° de réf. du vendeur 847

Détails bibliographiques

• Titre: Group of Fifty-One Russian Anti-Semitic and Anti-Bolshevik Caricature Lithographs
• Catalogues du vendeur:
  • Postcards
  • Soviet (USSR)
  • Politics
  • Propaganda
  • Judaica