The 1895 original poster by Fernand Fau for the Salon des 100 14th Exhibition is a fascinating piece of art that captures the spirit of the Belle Époque in France. The Salon des 100 was a popular art exhibition held in Paris, showcasing the works of contemporary artists and illustrators, and this particular poster served as the promotional image for the 14th installment of the series.
Fernand Fau, a French painter and poster artist, designed this lithograph to attract attention and bring art lovers to the exhibition at 31 Rue Bonaparte. Fau was known for his vivid and stylized portrayals of fashionable Parisian society, and this poster reflects his talent for capturing the essence of the era. The poster depicts an elegant woman in a stylish dress and hat, gazing at artworks in a gallery, a common scene during the height of Parisian art culture.
The Salon des 100 exhibitions, which were organized by the magazine La Plume, provided a platform for artists of the time to exhibit their work outside the traditional salons. This allowed for a broader range of artistic styles to gain public recognition, including Fau's own unique blend of Art Nouveau and symbolist influences. The exhibitions featured lithographs by prominent artists such as Toulouse-Lautrec, Mucha, and Grasset, making the Salon des 100 a significant cultural event in the Parisian art scene.
The 14th exhibition, like the others, was open to the public for a small entrance fee, as indicated on the poster (50 centimes). These exhibitions were instrumental in democratizing access to contemporary art, attracting a wide audience and helping to promote the emerging modernist styles of the late 19th century.
Fernand Fau's poster is not only a work of art in itself but also a historical artifact that represents the dynamic and evolving art world of Belle Époque Paris. Today, it is a sought-after piece for collectors of Art Nouveau posters and remains a symbol of the vibrant cultural life of the time.
Exhibition
Printed by Ducourtioux & Huillard Paris
Good condition, a trace of crease
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