Welcome ribbon "Long live the valiant army", 1917

One of the consequences of the February Revolution of 1917 was, without exaggeration, an explosion of social activity in all its forms and manifestations. In just a few weeks, many various professional and political societies and unions were organized. In relation to the World War, they were divided into two large groups: some (including the Bolshevik and Socialist-Revolutionary parties) advocated "peace without annexations and indemnities," others demanded "war to the bitter end." The latter point of view was held by and The Provisional Government. In Moscow and Petrograd constantly hosted demonstrations and rallies in support of the army and navy, as well as events to support the wounded, war invalids and families of fallen soldiers. 

A visual reminder of those times is the so-called welcome ribbon made of scarlet fabric with the inscription "Long live the valiant army". Judging by its size (170 * 17 cm), the ribbon was most likely used as an element of the design of the podium (an example of using such a ribbon in the photo in the description of the lot). It could also be worn on racks with a crossbar, acting as a slogan. The ribbon is made of scarlet satin — a shiny fabric, apparently cotton with the addition of silk. The inscription is stenciled with white oil paint, in a very recognizable font. It is usually called "Secession", although this term is collective and has a later origin. This type of fonts were used in the 1910s - early 1920s, and later were preserved only in newspaper headlines, so they are well known to the older generation. The ends of the ribbon are trimmed with a thin gold fringe. In order for the ribbon to keep its shape, it is lined with a so—called lining canvas - a linen fabric from which the lining of a soldier's uniform was made. Hanging thread loops and buttons were used to fasten the ribbon. The ribbon is fully complete and has been preserved in excellent condition, except for a slightly darkened fringe and small paint shedding. After October 1917, such propaganda materials were either hidden or destroyed, which is why they are practically not found today. A bright symbol of the February Revolution of 1917 will be an excellent purchase for your collection and a great addition to the design of the museum showcase dedicated to the events of the revolution!