Who against the Soviets. (Moore D.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

This is a 1919 Soviet political poster by artist D. Moor, titled Who is Against the Soviets. The poster depicts four figures representing perceived enemies of the Soviet regime, standing behind a black banner with mocking slogans.

What do I see?

• Top Banner: The main title reads КТО ПРОТИВ СОВЕТОВ (Who is Against the Soviets). Below this, in smaller print, is the iconic Marxist slogan Пролетарии всех стран, соединяйтесь! (Workers of the world, unite!).
• Black Banner: This banner displays two slogans in large, bold white letters. On the left is ДОЛОЙ (Down with), and on the right is СОВЕТЫ (the Soviets). The placement and presentation of these words are clearly intended to be ironic and accusatory.
• Four Figures:
  • Far Left: A figure in a richly decorated military uniform, complete with epaulets, medals, and a sword. He wears a distinctive cap with ear flaps and has a stern, imposing presence. This figure likely represents the old Tsarist regime, possibly a general or high-ranking officer.
  • Second from Left: A very portly man in a formal grey suit and a tall top hat. He has a monocle and a somewhat smug expression. This figure represents the bourgeoisie or capitalist class, symbolizing wealth and privilege.
  • Second from Right: A clergyman in dark robes and a distinctive priestly hat. He has a long beard and is wearing a cross around his neck. This figure represents the Russian Orthodox Church, which was a powerful institution often in opposition to the Bolsheviks.
  • Far Right: A man with a reddish beard, wearing a checkered cap and a vest over a patterned shirt. He appears to be a peasant, but his depiction (perhaps the slightly disheveled appearance and strong build) might suggest a kulak (wealthier peasant) or someone resistant to collectivization or Soviet ideology.
• Overall Composition: The four figures are positioned from left to right, suggesting a progression or grouping of opposition. They are all marching forward or standing resolutely, facing the viewer. The poster uses strong, graphic lines and a limited color palette, typical of early Soviet propaganda art.

What are the subtexts?

• Demonization of Opposition: The primary subtext is the demonization and vilification of anyone perceived as an enemy of the Soviet government. By grouping these diverse groups (military, bourgeoisie, clergy, and possibly peasantry) together and associating them with the slogan Down with the Soviets, the poster aims to portray them as a unified and treacherous force.
• Us vs. Them Mentality: The poster strongly promotes a us (Soviets) versus them narrative. The clear, direct title and the visual representation of enemies are designed to rally support for the Bolsheviks by identifying and alienating their opposition.
• Irony and Sarcasm: The slogan Down with the Soviets displayed on the banner behind these figures is highly ironic. Given that this is a Soviet poster, the implication is that these are the people who would or do want to bring down the Soviets. The poster is essentially asking the viewer, See these people? They are against us.
• Stereotyping: The figures are exaggerated caricatures. The general represents the old military order, the suited man the bloated rich, the priest the religiously dogmatic opposition, and the peasant a potentially recalcitrant element of the rural population. These stereotypes aim to make them easily recognizable and dismissible.
• Call for Unity (for the right side): While the depicted figures are shown as opposed, the inclusion of the Workers of the world, unite! slogan reinforces the Soviet call for unity among the proletariat against these perceived enemies. It implies that only by uniting can the workers protect the revolution.
• Historical Context (1919): The year 1919 was a critical period in the Russian Civil War. The Bolsheviks were fighting against internal and external threats, including White armies, foreign intervention, and counter-revolutionary movements. This poster serves as propaganda from that turbulent time, aimed at bolstering morale and solidifying public opinion against any perceived opposition to the new Soviet state.