This original 1917 lithographic poster by Alphonse Grebel was created to promote the Foire de Paris, held from May 1st to 15th during the final years of World War I. Far beyond a simple commercial announcement, this poster reflects the resilience and enduring vitality of the French capital amid wartime hardships.
The inclusion of Paris’s historic motto, Fluctuat Nec Mergitur (“Tossed but not sunk”), situates the event in a broader civic context, symbolizing the city’s cultural determination and economic ambition even in a time of national trial. The Foire de Paris remained a key moment in the calendar for manufacturers, artisans, and merchants, reinforcing France’s commitment to innovation and commerce.
Alphonse Grebel, known for his contributions to early 20th-century French graphic design, created several posters that blended patriotic purpose with clarity of communication. This particular piece is a testament to the role of public fairs as symbols of continuity and recovery during wartime.
Today, the 1917 Foire de Paris poster is appreciated as both a historical document and a fine example of early 20th-century poster art, reflecting the spirit of a nation determined to endure and rebuild.
Exhibition - Tourism - Ile de France
Fluctuat Nec Mergitur
Printed by " le papier " à Paris
Good condition, slight traces of folds
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