Prestito Nazionale (World War I Italian War Bond Poster)
Propaganda poster, color lithograph on paper • Luciano Achille Mauzan (1883–1952)
Style & Movement
Art Deco influence with Nationalist Realism; Italian Liberty Style (Stile Liberty) transition.
Medium & Technique
Color lithography; features fine draughtsmanship with tonal gradation and bold typography typical of early 20th-century commercial printing.
Creation Period
1917 (issued for the 1918 national loan campaign)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 140 x 100 cm (standard large Italian format); portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A soldier in gray-green uniform (Grigio-Verde) heroically clutches the Italian Tricolor flag to his chest while holding a sword. The text 'PRESTITO NAZIONALE' (National Loan) calls for citizens to subscribe to a 5% consolidata net bond to fund the war effort against the Central Powers.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair; appears framed and under glass, but shows visible horizontal and vertical fold lines consistent with original distribution methods.
Estimated Market Value
USD $800 - $1,500 based on condition and the popularity of Mauzan's work.
Auction Estimate
USD $600 - $1,200
Provenance History
Originally produced by Officine I.G.A.P. Milan/Rome for the Italian Ministry of Finance. Likely acquired through public auction or specialized vintage poster dealers.
Art Historical Significance
A seminal example of WWI Italian propaganda. Mauzan was one of the most prolific poster artists of the era; this work is significant for its emotional appeal to patriotism and its role in the financial mobilization of the Italian home front following the defeat at Caporetto.
Notable Features
Includes the iconic Mauzan monogram/signature on the left. The typography is a classic example of Italian modernist serif fonts used in state communications during the Great War.
Condition Issues
Visible fold creases (standard for posters of this age), potential minor foxing or yellowing due to acidic paper stock, and slight silvering or glare from the protective glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Ensure the poster is mounted on acid-free linen backing (if not already) and displayed behind UV-filtering glass to prevent further fading of the red pigments.