Description:

19th Century France
Paris, France, ca. 1895-1900
Highly Collectible Belle Époque Images, (3) "Les Maîtres de l'Affiche" Lithographs
Artwork
Three original lithographic posters as issued for the incredibly popular series "Les Maîtres de l'Affiche: Publication Mensuelle Contenant la Reproduction des Plus Belles Affiches Illustrées des Grands Artistes, Français et Étrangers" ["The Masters of the Poster: Monthly Publication Containing Reproductions of the Most Beautiful Posters Illustrated by Major Artists, French & International"] (Paris: L'Imprimerie Chaix, 1895-1900). Each of the lithographic posters is printed "Les Maîtres de l'Affiche / Imprimerie Chaix / (Encres Lorilleux & Cie.)" in the lower left corner, and each also features a blind-embossed "Maîtres de l'Affiche / Imprimerie Chaix" rectangular seal authenticating the lithographic posters at lower right. Individual condition issues will be elaborated below, but overall condition is very good. Each lithograph measures 11.375" x 15.625."

"Les Maîtres de l'Affiche" was offered as a set to its monthly subscribers. It contained highly collectible reproductions, in convenient reduced size, of some of the most famous posters produced during the Belle Époque. A total of 256 lithographs were issued to subscribers between 1895-1900, including the three below.

The lot includes:

1. "Les Maîtres de l'Affiche," Plate 14, advertising a musical theatrical production of "L'Enfant Prodigue," or "The Prodigal Child." Ca. 1896. Paris, France. Original poster art by Adolphe-Leon Willette; printed in black and white. The central image depicts father and son performers dressed as Pierrots, or mimes. Overall toning and mounting tabs located verso along the top edge. Isolated surface abrasions at the top edge and lower right corner, and a wrinkled upper right corner. Else near fine.

2. "Les Maîtres de l'Affiche," Plate 162, promoting an upcoming exhibit of French pottery: "Exposition Nationale De La Céramique Et De Tous Les Arts du Feu" at the Palais des Beaux-Arts (Champs de Mars), from May 15 - July 31, 1897. Ca. 1897. Paris, France. Original poster art by Étienne Moreau-Nélaton; printed in colors (black, white, brown, yellow, red, green). Overall toning, scattered minor corner wrinkles, and a tiny closed tear to the right edge. Else near fine.

3. "Les Maîtres de l'Affiche," Plate 179, depicting a Montmartre vaudeville performer named Mademoiselle Athènes, headlined with the name of a short-lived publication, "La Vache Enragée," or "Mad Cow." Ca. 1897. Paris, France. Original poster art by Auguste Roedel; printed in colors (black, white, brown, red, blue). Overall toning with minor wrinkles and chips to the corners. Mounting hinge located verso. Else near fine.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 11.375" x 15.625"
  • Medium: Artwork

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