Théâtre national de l'Odéon 1890

The 1890 original poster by Eugène Grasset for the Théâtre National de l'Odéon is a prime example of the elegant and refined design that defined the French Belle Époque period. This particular version is a "before the letter" poster, meaning it was printed before the final text was added, emphasizing the pure artistic composition without the additional advertising details that would normally follow.

Eugène Grasset, one of the pioneers of Art Nouveau, brings a distinctive style to this piece, merging fine craftsmanship with artistic sophistication. The poster showcases a scene of high-society theatergoers, capturing a moment of quiet anticipation as they sit in their ornate, velvety seats, ready for the performance to begin. The design features two women dressed in luxurious period attire, holding fans, with a pair of opera glasses resting on the red velvet ledge, suggesting the opulence and prestige of attending the Odéon theater.

Grasset's characteristic use of flowing lines and intricate details is clearly present in the poster. The women's dresses, rendered with meticulous attention to pattern and texture, embody the elegance of 19th-century fashion. The use of rich colors and delicate shading enhances the sense of depth and realism, while the stylized lines hint at the burgeoning Art Nouveau movement. The figures, poised and attentive, add a sense of narrative and life to the scene, drawing the viewer into the cultural sophistication of the era.

This poster is significant not only for its artistic value but also for its role in promoting one of Paris's most celebrated theaters. The Théâtre de l'Odéon, renowned for its productions of classical French plays and innovative works, was a cultural hub at the time. Grasset's poster would have been part of a larger trend where posters were both promotional tools and collectible artworks, thanks to their aesthetic appeal.

As an avant la lettre version, this piece holds additional value for collectors and enthusiasts of early poster art. The absence of text allows for a greater focus on Grasset's masterful illustration, unencumbered by the commercial elements of a finalized poster. Today, this original work is appreciated for its historical significance and as an exquisite example of Grasset's contribution to the Art Nouveau movement and the visual culture of Paris at the turn of the century.

Original Poster

Art Nouveau - Show

Before the letter

G. de Malherbe and H.A. Cellot, Paris

Good condition