WWI Era Watercolor Gouache Propaganda Art Painting Illustration Antique Cossacks

Description: This listing is for a extremely cool Rare WWI Era Watercolor, and possibly ink / Gouache, Propaganda Art Militaria Painting. Possibly a concept piece for a poster, propaganda piece in a magazine or newspaper, or caricature esque comic. It appears to depict a group of Cossacks meeting with two German or Prussian soldiers in the winter. The Cossack leader bears a Russian imperial insignia on his saddle, and a medal on his bandolier. I assume the pair meeting him are German due to their facial hair & different uniforms, however I have also seen certain images of the Czar depicting him in similar dress. Perhaps it is meant to be the Czar and some figure like Kaiser Wilhelm or Hindenburg making a deal with the Cossacks - I am not sure. They appear to be in good spirits, and are acting quite amicably towards each other, even though there is a body leaning against a broken wheel mere feet away. Also visible in the snow (bottom left) is the top of a German Spike helmet. Interestingly there also appears to be some kind of early plane or glider in the sky as well, though it could be a hastily sketched bird of some kind, it appears more man made. In the background, a larger group of cossacks ride their horses in front of a windmill. I believe it is a World War one piece, but it also could be related to the Russian revolution in some way. Without provenance, I am not sure. I have not been able to find a matching or even similar image on the internet as of yet. It is not signed, but it is marked “17 1/2 - 12” (the rough measurements of the work), along with “W-15-16” which I believe means Winter of 1915-1916. I unfortunately know nothing more of the provenance, though I am sure it has a fascinating backstory. It is an excellent piece for collectors, display / decor, gifting, and more. It is a work originally on a quality piece of artists paper which has been mounted on board & framed. The paper may have a signature or even a description on the back, but I have not even attempted to remove it, as an attempt by anyone not certified as a professional restorer would likely destroy it. Its original frame was deteriorated beyond repair, but was period correct. It had a heavy matting around it which protected it well through the years. It is great for display as is, or re-framing. The current matting works for it as is, but is not professionally cut. It is secured by two small pieces of gentle painters tape on the back of the board, which should come off without damaging the board. Thank you for your consideration, reasonable offers always considered. Comes as shown, please see photos for details & measurements. Comes packed with care, insured in shipment.

Price: 457 USD

Location: Allison Park, Pennsylvania

End Time: 2024-10-18T02:00:50.000Z

Shipping Cost: 12 USD