Hara‑Kiri No.130 (Juillet 1972), from the defiant French satirical monthly journal bête et méchant, known for its political bite, provocative visual concepts and uncompromising countercultural voice. This issue delivers a fierce parody of French revolutionary symbolism.
The cover features a woman styled as Marianne, the allegorical figure of the French Republic. She wears the iconic bonnet phrygien (Phrygian cap) in deep red, but instead of the usual noble depiction, her face is painted stark white with a dramatic circular motif around one eye — a graphic rendition resembling a bruise, symbolising violence inflicted on democratic ideals.
Text on the left twists the national motto into biting satire:LIBERTÉ,ÉGALITÉ,POING DANSLA GUEULE.(“Liberty, Equality, a fist in the face.”)
This transforms the famous slogan into a critique of political hypocrisy and state aggression. Bold, minimalist composition and the contrasting blue background reinforce the gravity of the commentary.
Cover details:
HARA‑KIRI masthead in icy white
No.130 – Juil. 72 – Mensuel 4,00F – Canada 65¢
Tagline: journal bête et méchant
Stock label: 1504
Classic mascot logo bottom left
High‑contrast studio photography emphasising texture and symbolism
Collectors value this issue because:
mid‑1972 issues are less common
strong political covers draw high interest
Marianne‑themed satire has historic significance
one of the more visually iconic covers from the early 70s run
Condition (from the photo):
Light wear along top and left edges
Sleeve reflections present but image remains clear
Colours vivid and well-preserved
No major tears, creases or staining visible
Spine appears intact with typical age marks
A powerful and sharply political Hara‑Kiri cover capturing the magazine’s fearless tone.
