Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster – The Land of the Bible poster – Jean David
Journey into the Heart of Biblical Tales with the Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster
This extraordinary Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster captures the very essence of the Nativity journey. It is a masterful creation by the celebrated Israeli poster artist, Jean David. David, while clearly influenced by Cubism, developed a uniquely distinctive artistic style that truly sets his work apart. This particular poster is a cherished part of the “Israel – The Land of the Bible” travel poster series, first released in 1952 by the State of Israel Tourist Centre.
Promoting the Holy Land: Jean David’s Iconic Series
Other notable posters within Jean David’s “Visit Israel, The Land of the Bible” series include majestic pieces like King David, Jonah and the Whale, and Jerusalem. These now iconic Israel travel posters were initially created to vigorously promote tourism to the newly established State of Israel during the 1950s. Today, these historical posters, including this stunning Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster, have become highly desirable and sought-after pieces of art amongst vintage travel poster collectors worldwide.
The Journey to Bethlehem: A Story in Art
This particular Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster beautifully illustrates one of the Old Testament’s most enduring and dramatic stories. It invites viewers to delve into ancient narratives that have profoundly shaped faith and history. David’s painting vividly portrays Mary and Joseph embarking on their arduous journey through the night to Bethlehem.
Mary is depicted, as is common and traditional, sitting upon a donkey or an ass, a widely accepted detail given the considerable distance and her pregnancy, even though the Bible doesn’t explicitly state her mode of transport. Joseph faithfully walks beside her, serving as her protector and constant companion on this pivotal journey.
Perhaps the most intriguing element, in the context of their journey to Bethlehem, is Jean David’s inclusion of a shepherd with a crook following behind them. Shepherds are, of course, prominent figures in the Nativity story. However, they are typically shown in the fields near Bethlehem when angels announce Jesus’ birth, subsequently coming to see the newborn child. Shepherds are, of course, prominent figures in the Nativity story. however, they are not usually depicted as part of Mary and Joseph’s travelling party en route to Bethlehem. This artistic choice adds a unique layer to the Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster.
The Nativity journey to Bethlehem for the Census Decree
The primary reason for what is commonly known as the Nativity Journey is detailed in Luke 2:1-5: “In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus that all the world should be registered. This was the first registration and was taken while Quirinius was governor of Syria. All went to their own towns to be registered. Joseph also went from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to the city of David called Bethlehem, because he was descended from the house and family of David.
Joseph went to be registered with Mary, to whom he was engaged and who was expecting a child.” Luke 2:6-7 further states: “While they were there, the time came for her to give birth, and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.”
The Nativity journey, the focus of this incredible Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster, is the work of the renowned Israeli poster artist Jean David. Obviously influenced by the cubist art style, David forged a distinctive style of his own. The poster forms part of a series of travel posters from the “Israel- the land of the Bible” series, published in 1952 by the State of Israel Tourist Centre.
Other posters in Jean David’s Visit Israel, The Land of the Bible series
Additional titles in Jean David’s ‘Visit Israel, The Land of the Bible’ series include King David, Jonah and the Whale and Jerusalem. These now iconic Israel travel posters were primarily created for the purpose of promoting tourism to the newly established State of Israel in the 1950s.
Today, these posters have become highly desirable and sought after pieces art art amongst vintage travel poster collectors.
This particular Israel Mary and Joseph poster beautifully illustrates one of the Old Testament’s most enduring and dramatic stories, inviting viewers to delve into ancient stories that shaped faith and history. David’s painting portrays Mary and Joseph making the journey through the night to Bethlehem.
Own a Piece of Israeli Tourism History
Original vintage posters, like the highly coveted Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster, are becoming increasingly rare and their prices can be substantial. For those who wish to appreciate this incredible artwork without the significant investment of an original, we offer superb, high-quality reproduction posters. These carefully crafted prints capture the true essence and vibrant details of Jean David’s original masterpiece, ensuring they look stunning when displayed, all without breaking the bank.
This poster would be a perfect addition to your office, living room, snug, or kitchen, sparking conversations and igniting memories. Order your reproduction Visit Israel Mary and Joseph poster today!
