Catalogue of Printed Ephemera 1914–1918

An Insight into Historical Ephemeral Prints

The catalog, curated by the National Library in Warsaw, features 2588 descriptions of printed ephemera, offering a rich and fascinating archive of documents. These materials were primarily distributed in pre-partition Poland, but also include prints from other partitioning countries and territories inhabited by emigrants. The collection sheds light on various aspects of civilian life, revealing the mechanisms of authority and the impact of war on society.

One of the most significant aspects of the catalog is its inclusion of fleeting prints, which served as vital sources of information and propaganda tools during that era. Reproduced in numerous copies, these prints reached individuals from all walks of life, acting as a form of communication akin to the internet, radio, and television of the time. Today, these documents offer readers a valuable window into the atmosphere and historical significance of this important period in Polish history.

The design of the catalog is a testament to Toborowicz's meticulous attention to detail. The cover, inspired by scattered printed leaflets, immediately captures the essence of the collection. The catalog's 880 pages are printed on high-quality paper, with the cover featuring Panta Geltex SEDA 135 g and Courious Collection Matter Desiree Red 135 g/m2. The interior pages utilize Olin High White 80 g/m2, while the offset print employs a 5+5 color scheme, combining CMYK with Pantone Metallic 8003 C.

Toborowicz faced several challenges during the design process, particularly in presenting the diverse range of reproductions in a legible and consistent manner. The layout, divided into two columns, effectively showcases the originals and technical descriptions side by side. The typography further enhances the distinction, with the original texts displayed in black using the historical Brygada 1918 font, and the technical texts in metallic color using the contemporary Lato font.

The Catalogue of Printed Ephemera 1914–1918 stands as a testament to the significance of historical ephemeral prints and their role in shaping society during times of conflict. Through Toborowicz's meticulous design and curation, this publication offers a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the period.

For the National Library of Poland, this catalog serves as an exclusive gift for their guests, commemorating the 100th anniversary of Poland's independence restoration. Its recognition as the recipient of the Iron A' Design Award in 2019 further solidifies its status as a well-designed, practical, and innovative creation that meets professional and industrial requirements.