The 1949 original poster by Pablo Picasso, created for the Exposition de la Paix (Peace Exhibition), is a masterful and poignant symbol of hope and unity in the aftermath of World War II. Designed to promote the exhibition, this poster features Picasso’s iconic lithograph The Dove, a work he created in the same year that has since become an enduring emblem of peace.
The centerpiece of the poster is a simple yet deeply evocative image of a white dove, rendered in Picasso’s characteristic minimalist and fluid style. The bird, an age-old symbol of peace and renewal, takes on even greater significance in this context, embodying the global yearning for harmony following the devastation of war. Adding a personal layer to the artwork, Picasso named his daughter Paloma (Spanish for Dove) in 1949, further connecting his art to his life.
The poster was printed by the renowned Mourlot Studios in Paris, celebrated for its collaboration with some of the greatest modern artists, including Matisse and Chagall. Mourlot’s expertise in lithographic printing ensured that the delicate lines and subtle textures of Picasso’s design were preserved, giving the poster a timeless quality. The exhibition was held at the Winter Circus (Cirque d’Hiver) in Paris, a historic venue that provided a grand and vibrant setting for this message of peace.
Beyond its immediate purpose, this poster reflects the broader cultural and political climate of its time. Organized under the auspices of global peace movements, the exhibition sought to rally people from all walks of life to advocate for an end to conflict and the pursuit of coexistence. Picasso’s involvement underscored the critical role of artists in shaping public discourse and inspiring collective action.
Today, the Exposition de la Paix poster is revered not only as a piece of art history but also as a testament to the enduring power of art as a force for peace. Its simplicity and universal message continue to resonate, reminding us of the essential human aspiration for a world free from violence and division. Picasso’s Dove lives on as a global symbol of hope, its gentle form as relevant now as it was in 1949.
Original Poster
Bird - Paris
Winter Circus - Dove
Printed by Mourlot in Paris
Good condition
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