Revolutionary art generally means propaganda – art with a political message that is intended to motivate or persuade. However, propaganda is not just a sinister manipulation, as connoted in the West since the early twentieth century.

In revolutionary and wartime societies, propaganda is considered a vital part of education and political participation. Propaganda encourages or condemns; reinforces existing attitudes and behaviour; and promotes social membership within nation, class or work unit.

Drawing on the British Museum’s wide-ranging collection, this book provides a fascinating contextual survey of political art across Asia, covering the period from about 1900 to 1976. The author explores themes such as propaganda in daily life; heroes and villains; the use of the past; symbolism; dissent; women and children; and revolutionary inspirations. Over 100
works of art from China, Japan, Vietnam, Korea, India and other countries are featured. Here are posters, prints, cartoons, calligraphy, ceramics, papercuts, textiles, panels and badges – powerful images designed to move hearts and minds.

This title is only available through Hotei Publishing in the United States of America, Canada and the Philippines.