Hara‑Kiri No.135 (Décembre 1972), from the infamous French satirical monthly journal bête et méchant, known for its provocative humour, political irreverence and visually shocking end‑of‑year issues. This December cover is a classic example of the magazine’s habit of attacking consumerism and festive hypocrisy through exaggerated parody.
The cover features a man dressed as Père Noël (Santa Claus) holding a knife in his mouth — a deliberately theatrical and absurd image, not meant to be taken literally. His intense expression and dishevelled white beard play into the theme of a Santa figure pushed to the brink by capitalist excess.
The bold headline reads:DERNIER NOËL CAPITALISTE(“Last Capitalist Christmas”)This is a tongue‑in‑cheek prediction of the supposed collapse of consumer culture — a joke that Hara‑Kiri frequently revisited during periods of political unrest.
Cover details:
Large yellow HARA‑KIRI masthead
No.135 – Déc. 72 – Mensuel 4,00F – Canada 65¢
Tagline: journal bête et méchant
Stock label: 1502
Classic mascot logo bottom right
Strong black background contrasting with vivid red Santa suit
Collectors value this issue for:
its seasonal theme, always popular among Hara‑Kiri collectors
the bold anti‑consumerist message
its striking photographic composition
rarity of 1972 late‑year issues
its status as one of the more iconic Christmas covers
Condition (from the photo):
Light edge wear visible on top right
Minor sleeve reflections across surface
Very strong colour contrast (reds and blacks are vibrant)
No major tears, creases or water damage visible
Spine appears intact with mild age wear
A standout piece of Hara‑Kiri’s provocative seasonal satire.
