French Poster l'Eclatante Lampe à Pétrole Sans Mèche 1895

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French Poster by Les Maîtres de l’Affiche: L'Eclatante lampe à pétrole sans mèche 1895 - Plate 143.
"Les Maitres De … Read more French Poster by Les Maîtres de l’Affiche: L'Eclatante lampe à pétrole sans mèche 1895 - Plate 143.
"Les Maitres De L’Affiche" (The Masters of the Poster) stands as a pinnacle in art history, renowned for its profound influence and prestige. Comprising 256 vibrant color plates, this collection showcases a diverse array of exceptional original posters from the turn of the twentieth century, a period when the art of poster-making flourished.
In the early days, printed posters leaned heavily on text, with minimal illustrations, primarily serving as advertisements for various products. However, as the nineteenth century progressed, a shift occurred. With the aesthetic enhancement of commercial goods, serious artists recognized the potential of posters as a medium for artistic expression. They began to infuse their creations with imagery that resonated with contemporary commerce, believing that the fusion of art and advertisement would mutually elevate each other's value.
The "Les Maitres de l'Affiche" series was a subscription-based offering to collectors. Subscribers received four loose sheets (known as Maitres) every month for 60 months, from December 1895 through November 1900, with a cover sheet included in each mailing. The series was sold in Paris for 2.50 francs for one month's subscription (which included four Maitres), and 27 francs for 12 months (48 maitres), plus special bonus plates.
Although "Les Maitres de l'Affiche" was never issued in book form, subscribers were offered a binding of the 12 months Maitres at the end of the year, complete with a beautiful hardcover design by Paul Berthon, for 8 Francs.
The "Maitres de l'Affiche" were issued as separate numbered sheets, referred to as "plates" (PL). They were numbered sequentially from "PL.1" to "PL.240" and the printer's name, "Imprimerie Chaix," was included in the margin at the bottom left-hand corner. In the margin at the bottom right-hand corner of each sheet, there was a blind embossed stamp from a Cheret design.
L'Eclatante lampe à pétrole sans mèche - 1895
The Artist, Manuel Robbe (1872 - 1936) was a prominent painter and printmaker during the turn of the century, renowned for his extensive production of decorative prints characterized by a bold and robust style. While he was known primarily for his decorative prints, his posters are particularly noteworthy for their exceptional composition and skillful use of simple colors.
One notable piece is "L’Eclatante," a vibrant poster advertising kerosene lamps. This striking artwork depicts two elegantly dressed women admiring the light from the lamp against a vivid red sky. Robbe showcases his expertise as a poster artist through meticulous attention to line and detail, which is evident in the intricate patterns adorning the women's dresses.
Robbe's work was influenced by Japanese design, particularly evident in his adept use of line and pattern. His experimental approach to printmaking led him to create over 200 aquatints and drypoints throughout his career. Robbe's technique evolved through various phases, including a unique printing method blending sugar, Indian ink, and gum Arabic on zinc plates, showcasing his innovative spirit and dedication to his craft.
(Plate 143) original stone lithograph (c.1895)
The "Maitres de l'Affiche" were issued as separate numbered sheets, referred to as "plates" (PL). They were numbered sequentially from "PL.1" to "PL.240"
The printer's name, "Imprimerie Chaix," is in the margin at the bottom left-hand corner.
In the margin at the bottom right-hand corner of each sheet is a blind embossed stamp from a Cheret design. See less