Victor Petrovich Boldyrev’s "Code of Honour. The Laws of the Collective" (1980s) exemplifies Soviet propaganda art during the late Cold War period. Created at a time of renewed ideological campaigns under Soviet leadership, the work reflects the state’s emphasis on collective responsibility and moral conduct. This artwork exists in two forms: an original oil on card sketch and the final silkscreen poster—an exceptionally rare complete set, as Soviet protocols typically mandated the destruction of preliminary sketches after approval. The poster’s message resonates with the state’s broader effort to reinforce socialist ideals during a period of economic stagnation, aligning with the late-stage campaigns for moral and labour discipline under the Brezhnev era.
The composition is dominated by four confident figures, depicted in bold yellow and white tones, emerging from a radiant background of red and gold rays. These workers reflect the diversity and unity of the Soviet workforce. At the centre, the prominent figure holds a book inscribed with "Code of Labour Honour" (in Russian), which acts as both a literal and symbolic focal point. Above, the hammer and sickle—a quintessential Soviet emblem—reinforces the themes of unity and progress. The symmetrical rays, emanating from the central book and spreading across the background, create a powerful sense of movement and dynamism, highlighting the collective energy and forward momentum of the Soviet people.
Boldyrev’s stylistic approach reflects a mastery of Soviet visual language. The poster employs a striking three-colour palette dominated by red, gold, and white—colours symbolic of revolution, prosperity, and bread. The bold, flat planes of colour and clean, sharp lines are hallmarks of modernist Soviet poster design, combining elements of socialist realism with contemporary graphic sensibilities. Red, as the dominant colour, underscores the revolutionary spirit and state authority, while the white and gold accents provide contrast, ensuring clarity and impact.
Victor Petrovich Boldyrev (1936–2006), born in Rostov-on-Don, was a Soviet poster artist known for his contributions to propaganda art. Boldyrev worked with influential organisations, including the creative workshop "Agitplakat Dona" and publishers such as "Soviet Artist" and Rostizdat. His works addressed pivotal social and political issues of the Soviet era, spanning themes from industrial progress to moral discipline. Notable works include "Lenin the Great Illuminated Our Path" (1969) and "Drunkenness Out! Sobriety is the Law!" (1986), which reflect his commitment to Soviet ideals. Today, Boldyrev’s posters are in prominent institutions like the State Historical Museum in Moscow, the Azov Historical, Archaeological, and Paleontological Museum-Reserve, the Volgodonsk Ecological and Historical Museum, the Rostov Regional Museum of Fine Arts, and the Saratov Regional Museum of Local History
