Side By Side, Poster for Britain’s Day, AGPI Gift

Wonderful jigsaw cut by David Beffa Negrini. Presented by AGPI (Association of Games & Puzzles International) to BCD for our 40th birthday, to recognise the closeness of the two groups over the last thirty odd years and a wish that that would continue in the years to come. Thank you to the AGPI Committee, the cutter David Beffa-Negrini, and to Deb Leo for all her work on our behalf.

A shaped outline, sliver-dropout clouds and a long text message adorn this exquisite jigsaw, whose image is brimful of meaning. The lovely glowing mahogany-veneered back, cloud sculpts and the signed-in-gold signature whimsy of David Beffa Negrini stand out, but the fine saw meant the text melted into the whole. The ‘whimsies out’ photos show how impressive this is. The close-fitting pieces slot together like a warm knife passing through butter.

The image is part of a 1918 poster designed by James Montgomery Flagg, 'Side By Side - Britannia!' for Britain's Day Dec 7th 1918. It shows Britannia & Uncle Sam arm in arm with the national animals Lion and Eagle, advancing together into the era after the Great War.

https://www.studenthandouts.com/world-history/world-war-i/pictures/britains-day-britannia-uncle-sam.htm

"Britain's Day" throughout the United States was marked by demonstrations in New York and Washington. Both cities were smothered in flags, while fetes, dinners, and open-air concerts were held, as in many cities. Contingents of Canadian soldiers were invited to participate in the celebrations at many border towns, and addresses eulogising Britain's effort, both on land and sea, were delivered in scores of centres.

Artist: James Montgomery Flagg
Date: Jan 2025
Brand: Fool’s Gold
Material: Solid wood with mahogany veneer
Nationality: USA
Pieces: 219
Size: 11x13in (estimated)
Theme: Britain, USA, Britannia & Uncle Sam, AGPI, BCD, The Great War, Peace, Eagle, Special Relationship.
Title: Side By Side