[WWII POSTER FOR JAPANESE CHILDREN].

国際信号旗. [Kokusai shingōki].
[International Signal Flags]

Japan. 少国民新聞. Shōkokumin Shinbun. Showa 16 [ 1941]. Stock ID #222949

Double page colour insert from the June 1st, 1941 issue of a children's newspaper features a large illustration of a merchant ship and signal flags illustrated in colour, the reverse features a full page of cartoon style imagery in blue ink and articles with line illustrations also printed in blue. 27.8 x 54cm. Fold marks vertically (as issued) and horizontally, evenly browned, few small tears at margins now repaired on the revers with washi. Good.

The imagery reflects the growing prominence of maritime transport and naval awareness in Japan on the eve of the Pacific War.

On the reverse appear two particularly revealing articles. The first consists of humorous parodies of well-known Japanese fairy tales, reworked to incorporate overt nationalist and militarist themes. While the ideological message is unmistakable, the tone remains playful, and the comic exaggeration suggests an effort to make patriotic sentiment accessible and engaging for young readers.

Alongside this is a short story recounting a young girl’s receipt of letters from her father at the front. The text notes that she has received twenty letters in total, implying his prolonged absence, most likely in the China theatre of war. The juxtaposition of humour and quiet domestic separation offers a poignant insight into how wartime realities were framed for children.

When referring to this item please quote stockid 222949.

Price: $200.00 AU

other currencies