Asignaat van 5 livres, 1793-1794 1793 - 1794

This is an ‘Asignaat van 5 livres’, printed between 1793 and 1794, by Domaines nationaux. Observe the stark contrast between the dense black ink and the white paper. This functional piece relies heavily on typographic arrangement, with lettering that emphasizes the revolutionary values of ‘Unite’, ‘Egalite’, and ‘Liberte’ and the central declaration of ‘Assignat de cinq livres.’ The composition is structured by a robust border, which contains dense, geometric patterns alongside textual warnings and affirmations. Each corner anchors the design, reinforcing the values of the revolution, law and punishment. The oval shape in the center softens the rigidity of the design. This curvature creates a visual tension between revolutionary values and practical needs, reflecting how revolutionary fervor had to be structured and contained.