Original and Rare “Srulik” Poster (1967) – Six-Day War Victory Celebration

About the Artwork and the Character: A historic and moving collectible from 1967, featuring “Srulik”—the mythological and beloved character who constitutes the undisputed symbol of Israeliness and the State of Israel. Srulik is the illustrated character most identified with the Zionist ethos, serving as the national symbol equivalent to the American “Uncle Sam.”

The character was created in 1956 by the cartoonist Kariel Gardosh (known by his pen name “Dosh”), who became one of the most prominent and influential illustrators in Israel. Srulik first appeared as a regular character in Dosh’s political cartoons in the Maariv newspaper, and his colleague on the editorial board, journalist Yosef Lapid, later rightly defined him as “an icon of Israel.”

Srulik is usually drawn as a young man, and his distinguishing features are a Tembel hat, biblical sandals, and short khaki trousers—a look intended to represent the ideal “Sabra” figure of the 1950s and 60s. He represents the Zionist pioneer, the dedicated farmer who loves his homeland; the everyday Israeli, a bit rough on the outside but determined, optimistic, and good-hearted. In normal times, Srulik is a working man, but in times of crisis, he takes off his work clothes, puts on an IDF uniform, and goes out to defend the country to raise the national morale.

Poster Description: In this magnificent poster, drawn immediately after the Six-Day War (1967), Srulik is presented in the center in full size, dressed in an IDF uniform (khaki/yellow), wearing tall red paratrooper boots and his familiar blue Tembel hat. He stands in a confident pose with his hands in his pockets, his face turned to the side with an optimistic look and a hopeful smile.

The background of the poster (in shades of light blue) is a work of art in itself—it consists of a rich collage of small cartoons and illustrations drawn by Dosh, depicting scenes, political statements, and historical moments from the war period (with witty captions such as “I need planes!”, “Direct talks,” and more). For decades, Srulik accompanied the central events in the life of the state, and he remains to this day a nostalgic symbol of unity, resilience, and the simple pioneering spirit.

Technical Specifications and Dimensions:

• Artist: Kariel Gardosh (Dosh)

• Year: 1967 (following the Six-Day War)

• Dimensions: 70×50 cm (~ 27.5×19.6 inches)

• Printing Technique: Zincographic Print

• Condition: Good condition

A perfect addition for collectors of Israeliana, Zionist history enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to bring home a piece of deeply rooted and moving Israeli nostalgia.