Caro, an instant coffee substitute made of barley, chicory, and rye was introduced in Germany in 1954, reflecting the enthusiasm for convenience foods in post-war Europe and the United States. However, chicory “coffee” had been popular in Germany in particular since the 18th century as a cheaper alternative to imported coffee. The name refers to the German word “Karo,” meaning the diamond suit in a pack of playing cards; the motif appears in the product’s logo here showing this factory-produced drink nestled on the otherwise wholesome-looking breakfast table set with nice china and flowers. The product is owned by Nestlé and is available around the world under various names; it is imported to the United States as Pero. Walter Muller designed a number of advertising posters for exhibitions, newspapers, and commercial products after World War II, typically in a sophisticated, abstract style.
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