French Indochina 1 Piastre

After the August Revolution, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam established its own currency and banknotes. However, the piastres previously issued by the French colonial authorities in Indochina remained in circulation. This particular one piastre banknote from that era featured an illustration on the right side, depicting what appeared to be an aristocratic woman standing before a traditional Vietnamese house. The other side of the banknote was left blank, surrounded with a border that has the recognizable stylistic influence of the French Art Nouveau movement. 

This art style was known for its depictions of women as whimsical, seductive, and ethereal figures with flowing hair. Notably, the portrayal of the woman on this banknote contrasted with the typical representations of the Art Nouveau era. This departure from the conventional depictions could potentially be attributed to the influence of feudal principles deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture at the time. Rather than presenting a carefree and ethereal figure, the illustration on the banknote portrayed a more restrained and dignified image, reflecting the societal norms and values of the era.