Denmark Country Of Smiles And Peace

This original vintage Danish travel poster was designed in 1949 by Henry Thelander (1902–1983) for the National Travel Association of Denmark. Titled "Denmark – Country of Smiles and Peace," it reflects the optimistic spirit of post-war Denmark, presenting the country as a welcoming, peaceful destination where visitors could enjoy simple pleasures, safety, and a relaxed way of life.

Thelander captures this message through an elegant illustration of a smiling mother cycling with her young child seated on the front of a traditional Danish bicycle. Long before Copenhagen became internationally famous as one of the world's great cycling cities, the bicycle was already an everyday symbol of Danish life. The image evokes freedom, happiness, and the close connection between family, nature, and sustainable transport that continues to define Denmark today.

Henry Thelander was one of Denmark's foremost commercial artists of the mid-20th century. His travel posters are celebrated for their refined realism, vibrant colour palettes, and ability to communicate an inviting national identity through simple yet memorable imagery. This poster is among his most recognizable works and remains an enduring icon of Danish tourism advertising.

Issued shortly after the Second World War, the slogan "Country of Smiles and Peace" reflected Denmark's desire to welcome international visitors back to a peaceful Scandinavia. Combining superb illustration with a timeless message, this poster has become one of the classic images of post-war European travel promotion and is highly sought after by collectors of Scandinavian travel posters and bicycle-related artwork.

A tear at top has been professionally repaired. The poster is otherwise in very good condition.