Cigarettes "Cannons". The Leningrad state tobacco trust. Beware of imitations (Zelensky A.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

The composition presents a striking visual juxtaposition centered around a stylized depiction of a cigarette package. The object itself is rendered in metallic silver, its cylindrical form dominating the central space and angled diagonally across the frame. A string is tied around it, adding an element of playful restraint or perhaps suggesting fragility.
Behind this prominent object lies a geometric backdrop constructed from sharply defined triangles and rectangles in a vibrant palette of red, yellow, blue, and green. This abstract field creates a dynamic tension with the more realistic rendering of the cigarette package, contributing to a sense of visual energy. The color scheme is characteristic of Constructivist aesthetics prevalent during the period.
Beneath the image, bold Cyrillic lettering announces Папиросы Пушки (Papirous Pushki), followed by the name of the Leningrad State Tobacco Trust and a warning against imitations. The typography is stark and functional, typical of Soviet-era propaganda and advertising. The number “25 шт.” indicates the quantity contained within the package.
The subtexts embedded in this work are multifaceted. The choice to represent a cigarette as something resembling a cannon – the name Pushki itself translating to cannons – is significant. It suggests an association between consumption and power, potentially linking the act of smoking with notions of strength or even aggression. This is further emphasized by the metallic rendering, which evokes industrial production and military hardware.
The warning against imitations underscores the importance of authenticity and brand loyalty within a state-controlled economy. The overall design conveys a sense of modernity and technological advancement, aligning with Soviet ideals of progress and industrialization. The geometric abstraction serves to elevate the product beyond mere consumer goods, transforming it into an emblem of a particular era and ideology.