New 24 Examples of Piety – 4 of 4

This poster is a modern representation of Filial Piety (respect and care for parents and ancestors), based on the classic Chinese text *The Twenty-Four Examples of Filial Piety*.

While the original tales date back to the Yuan Dynasty (14th century) and often focus on extreme sacrifices, this version is a propaganda poster from the 1980s or early 1990s, adapting these moral values ​​to modern China under the theme “New Winds of Respect for the Elderly”.

The poster uses the style of “Socialist Realism” to illustrate ideal behaviors in everyday life:

Modern Life: Instead of scenes from imperial times, we see families in contemporary (for the time) settings, such as airports or homes with modern furniture.

Practical Actions: The scenes illustrate caring for parents and grandparents, such as helping them with travels, ensuring they are well-fed, and welcoming them warmly home.

Educational Purpose: Historically, this type of art was displayed in schools, offices, and homes to teach Confucian values ​​of family harmony, now integrated into the social goals of [the institution/organization].

These posters were important during the reform period in China, shifting the focus from political struggle to economic development and a return to certain traditional virtues.

Credit: The Claremont Colleges

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