From the people's revenge is not to leave the enemy! (Rabichev I.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

Here we observe a stark and forceful composition centered around a male figure embodying resolute determination. The man, positioned prominently in the foreground, possesses a weathered face framed by a thick beard and accentuated by intense, narrowed eyes that convey unwavering resolve. He is clad in dark, simple clothing, with a bandolier of ammunition slung across his chest, suggesting readiness for conflict. His grip on a rifle is firm, projecting an image of preparedness and strength.
To the man’s left stands a woman, her face partially obscured by a headscarf, yet her gaze remains fixed and serious. Her presence contributes to the overall sense of collective responsibility and shared purpose. The artist placed these two figures against a backdrop depicting a scene of destruction – buildings engulfed in flames, creating an atmosphere of chaos and devastation. This background serves not merely as scenery but as a visual representation of the consequences of conflict and the urgency for action.
The color palette is dominated by dark tones – grays, blacks, and browns – which amplify the somber mood and reinforce the gravity of the situation. The limited use of brighter colors, primarily in the depiction of the flames, draws attention to the destructive forces at play.
Beneath the figures, a bold inscription reinforces the visual message: From the peoples revenge is not to leave the enemy! This text serves as a direct call to action, emphasizing the necessity for retribution and the complete eradication of opposition. The typography itself is assertive and straightforward, mirroring the overall tone of the work.
The painting’s subtexts revolve around themes of national defense, collective responsibility, and righteous vengeance. It appears intended to galvanize support for a cause through appeals to patriotic duty and the promise of retribution against perceived enemies. The depiction of ordinary individuals – the man and woman – suggests that everyone has a role to play in defending their community and exacting justice. The work’s style and content are characteristic of propaganda art, designed to inspire action and reinforce ideological beliefs during a period of conflict.