Despite an era marked by persistent war and disorder, the Republican period in Chinese history witnessed a remarkable boom spanning industry, commerce, and culture. From the hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan Shanghai to the rapid industrialization of Manchuria under Japanese occupation, 1930s China was a shining contrast to the rest of the world going through the Great Depression.
Through the portrayal of women and from the obvious Western influences, these advertising posters below reflected this uncertain period of openness and prosperity on the eve of impending war. Perhaps from these vintage posters, we can be reminded of a once thriving face of China that is not much different from today.
Nanyang Brothers Tobacco Company
Japanese-Manchurian Flour Milling Company
Harbin North Manchurian Tobacco Company
Shanghai Huiming Flashlight Company
Hangchow Wanyuen Silk Bureau
The Wing On Company Discount Advertising
Advertisement for Dragon Foot Powder Medicine
Shanghai Xu Shengji Printing Factory Advertisement
China Fuchang Tobacco Factory
Victoria Soap
Sunlight Soap
Kwong Sang Hong Ltd.
Source: Photographs are from Zhang Jibo’s blog on Sina, of 1920s-1930s Chinese advertising posters displayed at the Guan Shanyu Art Museum in Shenzhen.
