Description
RARE WWI U.S. SECOND ARMY HORSE SHOW POSTER – TOUL, FRANCE – APRIL 5, 1919 – SIGNED W. T. ENRIGHT – 24 X 19 INCHES
Rare original WWI-era American military poster advertising the Second Army Horse Show held at Toul, France, on April 5, 1919, during the period of American occupation duties following the Armistice. This striking poster features a wonderfully animated illustration of a U.S. Army soldier in full field equipment riding a bucking brown and white horse, with rifle, ammunition pouches, canteen, pack, and other equipment clearly depicted. The dramatic artwork is executed in bold black outlines with orange, blue, and white coloring, characteristic of American military poster art of the period. Beneath the illustration, prominent lettering announces "SECOND ARMY HORSE SHOW TOUL APRIL 5 1919." The artwork is signed "W. T. ENRIGHT" in the lower right corner, identifying the illustrator. The U.S. Second Army was established in France in 1918 and remained active following the Armistice, with headquarters at Toul, where American troops continued occupation, training, and recreational activities while awaiting demobilization. Horse shows were among the organized sporting and recreational events held for American soldiers during this period. An especially attractive and uncommon surviving example of American Expeditionary Forces artwork documenting the immediate postwar period in France. Measuring approximately 24 x 19 inches, this colorful poster would make an outstanding display piece for a collection of WWI American militaria, AEF material, military equestrian history, or early twentieth-century military graphic art.
