Back to School, Soviet Propaganda

This Ukrainian consumer cooperative poster from the mid-1980s advertises a “School Bazaar” organized through the Ukrainian cooperative system during the final decade of the Soviet Union. These seasonal bazaars provided families with clothing and supplies needed for the approaching school year. Addressed to “Dear Parents,” the poster lists school uniforms, fall and winter footwear, jackets, coats, briefcases, notebooks, pens, rulers, and compasses. The assortment offers a glimpse into everyday consumer life in Soviet Ukraine and the role cooperative stores played in distributing household and school goods. Produced by Ukooptorgreklama (Ukrainian Cooperative Trade Advertising), the poster documents an ordinary but revealing aspect of late-Soviet life, connecting the centralized organization of commerce with the familiar annual ritual of preparing children for school. Size: 23" x 16.25" Condition: Very Good, Age-appropriate wear, fading and toning. General border wear. Two small repaired border tears in left margin. Please use the photo zoom feature to get a better understanding of overall condition. *Additional photos available upon request.