Hot Moscow cutlets with a bun. 50 copecks. (Unknown artist) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

The composition presents a stark visual advertisement, dominated by bold typography and a limited palette. A dark background serves as a foil for the central elements: a stylized depiction of two food items and prominent numerical pricing. The text, rendered in Cyrillic script, announces the availability of a particular culinary offering alongside its cost – fifty kopecks – accompanied by the phrase with a bun. Above this, a larger inscription identifies the source as “Trade Cooperative USSR.”
The visual language employed is characteristic of Soviet-era propaganda and commercial design. The use of blocky lettering and simplified forms suggests efficiency and accessibility, aligning with the ideals of mass production and affordability promoted during that period. The food items themselves are rendered in a somewhat idealized manner; they appear uniformly appealing, suggesting quality and consistency.
The numerical pricing is particularly striking. Its size and placement immediately draw attention to the low cost, emphasizing value for the consumer. This strategy likely aimed to encourage widespread consumption of the advertised product, contributing to the broader goals of economic stability and public welfare. The inclusion of Trade Cooperative USSR reinforces the states involvement in distribution and pricing, highlighting a system where commerce is intertwined with political ideology.
Beyond the immediate promotional function, the advertisement offers insights into the social and cultural context of its creation. It speaks to an era marked by economic austerity and a focus on basic necessities. The simple presentation and affordable price point suggest that this offering was intended for a broad segment of the population. Furthermore, the design’s aesthetic reflects the broader visual culture of the time – one characterized by functionalism, clarity, and a deliberate avoidance of overt ornamentation.