La fin de la grande guerre Circa 1918

The circa 1918 original poster by Raoul Dufy, titled "La Fin de la Grande Guerre" (The End of the Great War), is a significant historical artifact commemorating the conclusion of World War I. Created for the avant-garde publication Le Mot, the poster reflects the magazine's dedication to blending art and literature with cultural commentary. Le Mot was directed by Paul Iribe, a prominent French illustrator and designer, with the collaboration of celebrated poet and playwright Jean Cocteau, adding to its intellectual prestige.

World War I left a profound impact on France, and its conclusion marked a moment of relief and reflection. Le Mot, which ran between 1914 and 1915 before briefly resuming activity during the war's final stages, sought to capture the cultural and emotional climate of this period. The magazine was known for its bold graphic designs and contributions from leading artists and writers of the time. Raoul Dufy, with his unique style and affinity for capturing the essence of French life, was a natural choice to illustrate such a significant moment.

The poster represents Le Mot’s innovative approach to integrating modern art into journalism. Its collaboration with figures like Dufy and Cocteau exemplified the period’s cross-disciplinary approach to culture and media. The magazine served as a platform for artists to explore contemporary themes through innovative visual and literary forms, aligning perfectly with Dufy’s artistic sensibilities.

Today, this piece stands as a testament to the enduring power of art in times of upheaval. It captures not only a historical milestone but also the spirit of a nation ready to rebuild and move forward. This rare piece is a significant artifact of both the First World War and the broader cultural movement that sought to document its impact through art and literature.

Original Poster

War 14-18 - France

Revue Le Mot is directed by Paul Iribe, with Jean Cocteau as privileged collaborator

Good condition, restorations