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Soviet Cigarette Labels: A Rare Glimpse into 1920s & '30s Design

Explore the creativity of Soviet designers through these historic cigarette labels. A must-see for design enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

This picture shows a vodka bottle placed here. In the background, there is a wooden wall.
This picture shows a vodka bottle placed here. In the background, there is a wooden wall.

Soviet Cigarette Labels: A Rare Glimpse into 1920s & '30s Design

A fascinating collection of 70 Soviet cigarette labels from the 1920s and '30s is now available for purchase through Productive Arts. This collection offers a unique glimpse into the creative branding and design of Soviet-era packaging.

The early Soviets demonstrated remarkable skill in branding and designing cigarette packaging. The designs in this collection span a wide range of themes, including political and nationalistic topics, regional representations, and fantasy elements. Each label is a testament to the creativity and innovation of the designers at Productive Arts, who crafted these works.

Tobacco and alcohol, as staple products worldwide, were no exception in the USSR. Despite the communist economic system, advertising played a significant role in promoting state-owned industries and their products. Centralized organizations were responsible for creating advertisements that helped establish the names of state-owned enterprises and reflected the fast-paced style of the times. Cigarette brands, in particular, were significant sources of income, even in this communist economy.

This collection of Soviet cigarette labels provides a unique opportunity to explore the branding and design of a bygone era. Each label is a piece of history, offering insights into the creativity and innovation of Soviet designers, as well as the role of advertising in communist economies.

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