Feature Points
- VINTAGE PRINT REPRODUCTION: Historic reproduction of 1938 Brookfield Zoo Chicago Poster. Printed on archival-grade paper that resists fading and discoloration for over 100 years. Perfect for home, office, or gallery display.
- PREMIUM GALLERY PAPER: Heavyweight fine art paper with non-reflective matte finish eliminates glare while delivering museum-grade appearance and lasting durability.
- PROFESSIONALLY RESTORED: Each image is digitally restored by our art specialists to remove age-related deterioration while preserving authentic historical details and character.
- BORDERLESS DESIGN: Artwork prints edge-to-edge for a seamless, gallery-ready appearance. Ships protected in rigid tube packaging to prevent damage and ensure perfect condition upon arrival.
- MADE IN USA: Our multi-step restoration process and quality control ensure each print meets professional standards. Every reproduction is individually inspected before shipping.
Additional Information
Designed by artist Mildred Waltrip for the Federal Art Project, this captivating 1938 poster promotes Chicago's Brookfield Zoo through imaginative visual storytelling. The composition features hippopotamuses dramatically superimposed over an outline of Africa, creating a striking connection between the zoo's exotic inhabitants and their continental origins.
Brookfield Zoo had opened in 1934 as one of the first American zoological parks to utilize naturalistic barless exhibits rather than traditional caged enclosures. This revolutionary approach to animal display attracted visitors from across the Midwest and established the institution as a leader in modern zoological design and conservation education.
The Works Progress Administration employed artists throughout the Depression to create promotional materials for public institutions, parks, and cultural organizations. These distinctive posters combined modernist design sensibilities with accessible imagery, encouraging Americans to engage with educational and recreational resources during economically challenging times throughout the nation.
This distinctive poster stands as a testament to both Depression-era graphic design excellence and Chicago's commitment to public education through its beloved zoo. Its creative geographic imagery offers a charming window into how cultural institutions promoted themselves, making it an extraordinary addition to any collection celebrating American art history.
