De Mazas à Jérusalem par Zo d'Axa 1895

The original 1895 poster by Steinlen, titled "De Mazas à Jérusalem par Zo d'Axa," offers a compelling glimpse into the cultural and political landscape of the era. Created by renowned artist Théophile-Alexandre Steinlen, this poster captures the essence of a significant literary journey undertaken by Zo d'Axa, a prominent French anarchist and journalist.

Steinlen's artistic prowess shines through in the poster's composition, which likely served as a visual invitation to engage with Zo d'Axa's writings and ideas. The juxtaposition of the mundane (represented by the reference to Mazas, a prison in Paris) with the exotic and mystical (symbolized by Jerusalem) hints at the transformative nature of Zo d'Axa's narrative journey.

As a leading figure in the anarchist movement, Zo d'Axa's writings often challenged conventional norms and advocated for social change. The poster's imagery, coupled with its enigmatic title, suggests a narrative of rebellion, exploration, and perhaps spiritual awakening—a journey from confinement to liberation, both literal and metaphorical.

Steinlen's bold use of line and form, combined with his keen understanding of visual storytelling, makes this poster not just a promotional tool but a work of art in its own right. It stands as a testament to the power of art to provoke thought, spark curiosity, and inspire action in the pursuit of social justice and intellectual freedom.

Literature

Drawings by Lucien Pissarro, Steinlen, Félix Vallotton

Paul Schmidt Montrouge

Good condition, bug holes