Chinese Cultural Revolution Poster

A pen-like flag, a golden roundel and a short, sharp line of text.

Chinese presses made this poster in ink on paper in China during the Cultural Revolution, in the 20th century. Short instructional lines, set beside a small portrait, were a regular format for hanging in workplaces. A gold medallion at the left holds a profile portrait under a red-starred cap. A long red pennant spreads across the sheet, with a small pen nib and flame at its upper left. Large yellow characters fill the center.

About 30 by 42 inches. A bold red field that still holds its color.