Affiche ter promotie van: Max Immelmann, Meine Kampfflüge, 1917 before 1917

Curator: Here we have a promotional poster titled "Affiche ter promotie van: Max Immelmann, Meine Kampffluge," which translates to "My War Flights," created before 1917, attributed to A. Rother. It seems to advertise a book, perhaps. Editor: The high contrast immediately strikes me. The sharp division of light and dark, that brooding skyline… it evokes a sense of foreboding, or maybe romanticized heroism in the face of something grim. Curator: Notice how the design emphasizes the visual dichotomy. We have this sharply defined eagle in stark white set against an unyielding black rectangle, creating a visual push and pull. The city below mirrors this with its rigid, gold silhouette against a sky inflamed with streaks of crimson. The rigidness lends it some order, doesn't it? Editor: The eagle, a prominent symbol throughout history, appears here not simply as an emblem of power or victory, but feels predatory, looming. Consider its position relative to the cityscape. This bird, poised in flight, might imply protection over the populace... or impending doom. Curator: Or the bird *is* the impending doom itself, consider the vantage point. Let's explore the typography—the font shifts, almost playfully, contrasting with the serious undertones. Observe how the title flows and swirls, a bit of Art Nouveau amidst the militaristic subject matter. It feels as if they’re purposefully utilizing fonts for emotive qualities. Editor: Right. The bold claim, "Selbsterlebt und selbsterzählt!", "Experienced and recounted by himself!", suggests authenticity and an intensely personal narrative, tapping into the very human desire for firsthand accounts. The price details, presented with similar dramatic lettering, further amplify the accessibility, the idea that these "war flights" are available, consumable, to all. Curator: The symbolism layered here speaks to the socio-political currents. This poster transcends its function as mere advertisement and instead reflects a very complex blend of cultural memory, heroic narrative, and a stark commercial transaction. Editor: Absolutely, a symbolic dance where commercial appeal meets cultural anxieties. Quite telling. Curator: It seems to be doing so with masterful formal strategy to grab your attention. Editor: Precisely; I will certainly not be forgetting this piece.