Il portait l'Afrique dans son coeur ( Lumumba) Circa 1960

This powerful poster created around 1960 by Victor Koretsky pays tribute to Patrice Lumumba, one of the most important figures of the African decolonization movement. The composition reflects the strong international political symbolism surrounding Lumumba during the early years of African independence.

At the center of the image appears a striking portrait of a man whose upward gaze suggests determination and sacrifice. His body is partially bound with ropes, symbolizing oppression and struggle. Painted in vivid red across his chest is the silhouette of the African continent, positioned where the heart would be. This powerful visual metaphor illustrates the message conveyed by the title: Lumumba carried Africa in his heart.

Behind the central figure, multiple raised fists emerge in pale tones, forming a symbolic backdrop of collective resistance and solidarity. These repeated gestures evoke the broader liberation movements that spread across Africa during the mid-twentieth century. The contrast between the dark, sculptural rendering of the figure and the lighter background fists reinforces the sense that Lumumba represents a larger movement of people striving for freedom.

The inscription at the bottom of the poster appears in Russian and translates to “He carried Africa in his heart (Lumumba).” During the Cold War era, Soviet graphic artists frequently produced posters supporting anti-colonial struggles and independence movements across Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These works combined dramatic symbolism with bold graphic design to convey strong political messages.

Victor Koretsky was one of the most renowned Soviet poster designers of the twentieth century, celebrated for his emotionally charged imagery and powerful visual metaphors. His works often addressed themes of social justice, international solidarity, and political struggle.

Today, posters like this one stand as vivid examples of Cold War visual culture and the global significance of African independence movements. Through dramatic imagery and symbolic composition, the poster transforms a historical figure into a powerful emblem of resistance and continental identity.

Original Poster

USSR - Russia

Plate No. 10

Good condition