Have you a Red Cross service flag

A hand-painted replica of Jessie Willcox Smith’s masterpiece Have you a Red Cross service flag, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.

"Have You a Red Cross Service Flag?" is an iconic illustration created by American artist Jessie Willcox Smith during World War I. The artwork was commissioned by the American Red Cross as part of its efforts to promote public support for the organization’s humanitarian mission during the war. Jessie Willcox Smith, a renowned illustrator known for her depictions of children and domestic life, brought her signature style to this piece, which was widely circulated as a poster.

The illustration features a young girl holding a Red Cross service flag, a symbol used during the war to indicate that a household had a family member serving in the military or contributing to the war effort. The girl is depicted with a solemn yet hopeful expression, emphasizing the emotional weight of the war on the home front. The Red Cross emblem—a red cross on a white background—is prominently displayed on the flag, reinforcing the organization’s identity and its role in providing aid to soldiers and civilians.

Smith’s work for the American Red Cross was part of a larger trend during World War I, in which artists and illustrators were enlisted to create propaganda and promotional materials. These works aimed to inspire patriotism, encourage enlistment, and generate support for war-related charities. Smith’s ability to evoke emotion and connect with viewers made her an ideal choice for this type of project.

The poster was one of many produced by the American Red Cross during the war, and it played a significant role in raising awareness and funds for the organization. The Red Cross service flag itself became a widely recognized symbol during World War I, and its use extended beyond the United States to other Allied nations.

Jessie Willcox Smith (1863–1935) was one of the most prominent illustrators of her time. She was part of the "Golden Age of Illustration" in the late 19th and early 20th centuries and is best known for her work in magazines such as Ladies' Home Journal and Good Housekeeping, as well as her illustrations for children’s books. Her collaboration with the American Red Cross during World War I highlights her contribution to the cultural and social fabric of the era.

"Have You a Red Cross Service Flag?" remains a notable example of wartime art and a testament to the power of visual media in mobilizing public support for humanitarian causes.