Joan of Arc Saved France: Women of America Save Your Country, 1918
William Henry “Haskell” Coffin (American, 1878-1941)
Lithograph on paper (Reproduction)
Courtesy of the Joseph M. Bruccoli Great War Collection, Irvin Department of Rare Books and Special Collections, University of South Carolina
William Henry “Haskell” Coffin was best known for his high-profile cover illustrations for the prestigious Saturday Evening Post. Coffin was called upon to use his training as an illustrator of actress and showgirl profiles to render the French war heroine Joan of Arc. The subject’s rosy, perfectly proportioned face is offset by the cold steel body armor. This resulted in a portrayal of Joan of Arc, and by extension the American Woman, that is both classically beautiful yet war-ready. The use of Joan of Arc referenced her popularity among Americans at the time, and was also a gesture of respect towards the decimated French. She extols the women of America to do their part and buy War Savings Certificate Stamps.