Srulik: The Essence of The Young State of Israel From Ink and Paper to the National Symbol

Srulik, the brainchild of the renowned cartoonist and illustrator Kariel “Dosh” Gardosh.

From the very moment of Srulik’s inception, his animated persona embraced the role of the quintessential “Sabra” – an impish idealistic boy in shorts, sandals and a brimless Israeli sun hat whose serves as the cartoonist’s response to the traditional portrayal of the hunched and bearded Jewish exile.

According to Dosh, the creation of Shroulik stemmed from his desire to capture the essence of the young State of Israel, akin to national characters like Uncle Sam, the Russian bear, or the French Revolution’s heroine, Marian. Srulik initially represented the innocence of childhood, but as the Six-Day War loomed, he enlisted in the IDF alongside his fellow citizens, swapping his childish attire for a military uniform.

Srulik quickly captured the hearts of the Israeli public, resonating with their own experiences and evolving into a beloved national symbol. Renowned cartoonist Dosh described Shroulik as more than ink and paper, embodying a soul that reacted to everyday events in a way that mirrored the collective understanding. His image graced official publications and commercial products, and in 1998, Srulik was even featured on a commemorative stamp issued by Israel Post.

Beyond the realm of newspapers, Srulik’s popularity extended to various commercial products. From the 1950s onward, his likeness adorned cigarette boxes, hats, shirts, and countless souvenirs. Today, his image can still be found on figurines, posters, dolls, and an array of items, exemplifying his enduring appeal and cultural significance within Israeli society.

The image of the Israeli boy continues to inspire artists and creators, who draw their own interpretations of the original character. Some preserve Srulik’s vitality and freshness, while others use his image to depict the profound transformations Israel has undergone. Through their artwork, these artists pay tribute to Dosh’s remarkable contributions and honor Srulik’s lasting legacy in Israeli culture.