In capturing the essence of the French nation, Arthur Szyk put emphasis on distinctively modern events. The painting almost overwhelms one with a bright mosaic of color. Each jewel-like square displays the coat of arms of an individual region of France, such as Lorraine, Brittany and Normandy. Yet the unity and shared culture of France has also clearly been illuminated.
The capitalized initials "RF" (Republic of France) appear three times, and memorializes the establishment of the Republic in the early part of the French Revolution (late eighteenth century). Later "editions" of the Republic led to the "5th Republic" of recent times.
Written on the ribbons surrounding the tri-color flag of France at the center top of the print are the three famous rallying words of the French Revolution (1789-1799): Liberty, Equality and Fraternity.
The two military figures at the lowest section remind the viewer that the Revolution was born and nourished in blood and violence, and that, since that time, the political agenda of France has been reinforced by military power.
Modern France is symbolized by the Eiffel Tower, built in 1889. Flanking it on the opposite side is the Notre Dame cathedral of Paris.
Significant French achievers are represented by Lafayette, for his contribution to the American Revolution. Below Lafayette is a portrait of the playwright, Moliere, a favorite of Louis XIV. On the upper right of the print is a medieval portrait of Joan d'Arc, the maid of Orleans, who reversed French military fortunes against the English in the 14th century. Beneath Joan d'Arc is a portrait of Louis Pasteur, the famous scientist whose contributions benefited all mankind.
Selections of the key illustrations are typical Szyk choices and reflect his lifetime dedication to the issues of individual and national freedom, human dignity and religious toleration.
