Jigsaw puzzle, 'The Puzzle of Europe'

item details

NameJigsaw puzzle, 'The Puzzle of Europe'

ProductionMere; manufacturer(s); 1939-1945; New Zealand

Classificationjigsaw puzzles

Materialspaper, cardboard, ink

Materials Summaryprinted paper and cardboard

Techniquesprinting

DimensionsOverall: 177 (width), 60 (height), 255 (length)

Registration NumberGH012047/1-4

Credit lineGift of Vivienne Morrell, 2008

Overview

This jigsaw puzzle is an example of how World War II pervaded many aspects of New Zealand life. The private company that created the puzzle was both reflecting and cashing in on New Zealanders’ patriotism.

Every piece tells a story

The jigsaw pieces are all in the shape of swastikasand the challenge was to 'Put Europe Together Again!' The makers of the jigsaw declared that their productwas 'Worthy to be preserved for future generations as a unique record of the present chaos wrought by the wearers of the Swastika.'

Impact of war onsociety

On 3 September 1939, New Zealand declared war on Germany. World War II brought about New Zealand’s greatest national effort and the largest mobilisation of people in its history. The jigsaw puzzle is one example of the militarisation of New Zealand society at the time.