Beschreibung:

prints, 9" x 12.72" (sight), framed to 10" x 13.5". Both by Charles-Lucien Leandre and dated 1914. Without electronic media, posters and prints were a major vehicle to keep the public informed and stir patriotic sentiment. One is of Kaiser Wilhelm II and is captioned (roughly translated) His smile! The Kaiser in front of Louvain (a Belgian town burned to the ground by the Germans in August 1914 as they marched toward France). The other is Crown Prince Wilhelm, and is captioned (roughly) His smile! The Crown Prince in front of the Cathedral of Reims in flames. The Reims Cathedral was the traditional location for the coronation of French kings. Even though they no longer had a monarchy, and most French were not Catholic by the 20th century, they were outraged at the bombing of this historic landmark, something outsiders found confusing. One German thought they would be happy to be rid of this symbol of oppression. How little he understood his neighbors! Charles-Lucien Leandre (1862- 1934) studied under Bin and began exhibiting in the Paris salon by the age of 25. He specialized in portraits and genre painting, and later started a couple of publications. His lithographic work is considered among the best. He was made a chevalier in the Legion of Honor in 1907. Condition: Light even toning, scattered foxing, which is heavier on the "Kaiser" than the "Crown Prince." The latter has a short tear (approx. 1") in the lower right corner that does not extend into the print. Probably framed simultaneously, so one was removed from frame. Not laid down, but both should be reframed soon, since the framers used cardboard for backing and back of print is more heavily toned than front.