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Lot 028 - World War I Era United States Food Administration Propaganda Poster “Sugar Means Ships,” Carey Printing Company, New York, 20-1/4" x 16-1/4"
Lot 028 - World War I Era United States Food Administration Propaganda Poster “Sugar Means Ships,” Carey Printing Company, New York, 20-1/4" x 16-1/4"
Lot 028 - World War I Era United States Food Administration Propaganda Poster “Sugar Means Ships,” Carey Printing Company, New York, 20-1/4" x 16-1/4"
Original World War I–era American propaganda poster issued by the United States Food Administration, promoting sugar conservation during wartime. The poster reads “Sugar Means Ships,” with additional text explaining that sugar imports required vital shipping capacity needed for transporting soldiers and supplies. The message urges reduced consumption of sugar-sweetened drinks as part of the national war effort.
The design features dramatic period illustration showing sugar shipments competing with military transport, a hallmark of U.S. Food Administration messaging during World War I. Printed by The Carey Printing Company, New York, whose winged “Seal of Quality” mark appears on the sheet. The U.S. Food Administration seal is present at top, along with the artist’s monogram within the illustration.
Offered as found, housed in a later, inexpensive modern plastic and glass frame. Condition reflects age and use, including toning, surface wear, scattered marks, and handling creases visible in the paper. No conservation noted. A strong and visually compelling example of early 20th-century American wartime graphic design and home-front conservation propaganda.
Auction Date: 12/18/2025
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