This circa 1950 original poster by Albert Brénet was designed for the Compagnie des Bateaux à Vapeur du Nord, highlighting maritime trade and passenger travel between Algeria and Tunisia. Brénet, a celebrated maritime artist, captures the essence of North African commerce and colonial-era shipping with his signature dynamic and realistic style.
The composition presents a vibrant harbor scene, where a steamship, adorned with flags and towering masts, serves as a symbol of international trade and connectivity. In the foreground, a woman dressed in traditional attire holds ripe oranges, representing the rich agricultural exports of North Africa. The contrast between the imposing steamship and the human element reflects the intersection of industrial progress and local culture, a theme often explored in Brénet's work.
Albert Brénet (1903–2004) was a renowned French illustrator and official painter of the French Navy and Air Force. His works are characterized by their attention to movement, light, and technical precision, making him a favored artist for transportation and travel posters. Over his career, he created iconic promotional artworks for shipping companies, airlines, and railways, capturing the romance and power of modern transport.
The Compagnie des Bateaux à Vapeur du Nord played a significant role in the maritime connections between France, Algeria, and Tunisia, facilitating both trade and passenger travel. The poster embodies the post-war economic expansion and the importance of maritime routes in the Mediterranean and North African regions. These posters not only advertised travel but also stood as artistic records of an era where ocean liners and steamships dominated global commerce.
Maritime Company - North Africa
Printed by La photolith in Paris
Good condition
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