During the First World War, a remarkable German painter Arthur Thiele created many illustrations about current events. This «gentle» propaganda humorously drew two life’s: the life at the front and the life in the rear. And it was showing even the most unpleasant moments of it. But the series of eight postcards presented below are dedicated to a pleasant topic for any soldier — holidays.
The series, called «On Vacation» (Auf Urlaub), tells the story of a happy soldier of the German Landsturm, who, according to the carefully painted Iron Cross in the loop, recently distinguished himself and got a chance to see his family. By sending home such a postcard, the soldier gave his relatives hope for an early meeting and he himself began to believe in it.
"Towards the homeland" (Der Heimat entgegen). Happy holidaymakers say goodbye to their comrades, while walking down from the mountain to the railway station, where a train is already waiting for them
"Story about Frontline Life" (Erzählung von Kriegserlebnissen). Certainly, the talkative front man in the wagon will always be in the spotlight, especially when other soldiers are not around
"A stormy welcome" (Stürmische Begrüßung). That's how a real front-line soldier meets his wife! The youngest daughter, however, seems to have forgotten her father and got scary
"A blessed meal" (Gesegnete Mahlzeit). The homesick Landsturmer, who missed the homemade food, shows an outstanding appetite — and the food situation in the country is clearly behind the scenes. An offspring with his father's cap and saber marches around the room under the flag with a portrait of the Kaiser
"Finally a bed" (Endlich ein Bett). The wife and older children awe the peace of the warrior while the youngest daughter plays with her pocket watch. Interesting Iron Cross, respectfully hung from the corner of the back of the bed — indeed, lying on the floor with the outfit is not suitable for such an award!
"Home sweet home" (Im trauten Heim). It's just like before the war: a pipe, a chair, an evening newspaper and a flapper. There's another child coming from somewhere
"With old friends" (Unter alten Freunden). A Kegelbahn, beer, cigarette smoke and handshakes — there are obviously some “white chit” holders here! However, everyone's happy to see each other
"The Sunday Trip" (Der Sonntagsausflug). Apparently, the culmination of the vacation is singing the hymn or patriotic songs among
