Hara‑Kiri No.126 (Mars 1972), from the infamous French satirical monthly journal bête et méchant, known for its bold political humour, theatrical visual parody and irreverent commentary on authority. This issue takes aim at institutional morality, contrasting religious condemnation with exaggerated, comedic imagery.
The cover depicts a costumed ballroom scene:
A man posed in a classical dance hold, wearing only period‑style accessories while embracing a woman dressed in elaborate 18th‑century costume.
The woman remains composed, almost statue‑like, in an ornate powdered wig and layered pastel gown.
A speech bubble reads: “Pourtant, on fait rien de mal.”(“Yet, we aren’t doing anything wrong.”)
This staged tableau mocks the disconnect between moral judgement and harmless behaviour — a recurring theme in Hara‑Kiri.
Headline text to the left: LE PAPE CONDAMNELE BALET LA GUERREAU VIETNAM(“The Pope condemns the ball and the war in Vietnam”)This ironic pairing highlights the magazine’s criticism of misplaced outrage.
Cover details:
Large blue HARA‑KIRI masthead
No.126 – Mars 72 – Mensuel 4,00F
Tagline: journal bête et méchant
Stock label: 1507
Classic mascot emblem bottom-left
Collectors value this era because:
it marks a period of strong political commentary
1972 issues remain scarcer on the market
covers often mix costume, satire and theatrical staging
it sits in the transitional years before major shifts in the publication’s format
Condition (from the photo):
Mild top‑edge wear
Sleeve reflections visible across lower section
Spine appears intact with light age‑related stress
Colours strong, text crisp
No major tears or creases observed
A visually rich and politically charged example of Hara‑Kiri’s early‑70s satire.
Hara Kiri Magazine - No.126 - Le Pape Condamne Le Bal - French Satire - 1972
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