1940s Reaction to Blackout (WWII Era Watercolor Illustration)
By: Anonymous
Date: 1940s (circa)
Dimensions: 30 x 20 inches (76 x 51 cm)
This unique WWII-era hand-painted illustration presents an abstracted urban setting with a darkened skyline, likely symbolizing a city under blackout conditions, a reference to the air raid precautions implemented during wartime.
The title (top left) "Reaction to Blackout" suggests a direct reference to wartime blackouts, which were widely enforced during World War II in major cities to prevent enemy aircraft from targeting illuminated urban areas. The artistic style, featuring angular abstraction, resembles works produced in the late 1930s to 1940s, aligning with modernist and precisionist movements that sought to depict industrial and urban landscapes in a fragmented, almost mechanical manner. The muted tones, interspersed with bursts of brighter colors, further reinforce the psychological impact of wartime restrictions and the chaos of air raid alarms.
The exact purpose behind the creation of Reaction to Blackout remains uncertain. However, the illustration board it was painted on was commonly used by artists producing proofs for wartime propaganda posters. Taking this into consideration, it is possible that this piece was intended for mass production as part of the wartime effort but never reached that stage. As there are no known reproductions or additional examples of this work, it may have remained a singular artistic expression rather than being widely distributed.
Condition: This piece is in fine to very fine condition with bumped corners and two holes on either side where it was likely nailed to a wall.
Inventory #92289
1200 W. 35th Street #425 Chicago, IL 60609 | P: (312) 496 - 3622