Publisher: NSB

Designer: Louis Emile Manche

K-number: K 2185

Approval: Department of Public Information and the Arts No. 130

Hanging period: September 15, 1943 – November 1, 1943

Dimensions: approx. 54 x 39 cm

Original Dutch propaganda poster from 1943, designed by Louis Emile Manche, one of the most distinctive illustrators of NSB propaganda. The poster bears the slogan "Europe – A close alliance of free peoples" and is executed in bold shades of green. The stylized landmass of Europe forms the central image, with a large, sharply rendered sword running diagonally across it, running diagonally through the composition. This sword serves as a visual anchor, symbolizing strength, protection, and the fighting spirit with which the proposed European alliance was presented. The large, clean typography for which Manche is known enhances the design's clear and direct character. The overall effect emphasizes the idea of a united Europe, as the movement sought to promote it during the occupation.

Condition:

The poster has been folded and shows some light fold marks, as is common with distributed propaganda copies. Small, neat repairs have been made on the back with acid-free archival tape to stabilize fragile points. These reinforcements are not visible on the front. The colors have remained vibrant, and the paper shows only minor signs of age. Overall, the poster is in good, well-maintained condition for an original 1943 copy.