This 1950 original travel poster by Edmond Maurus, created for Air France, is a captivating representation of mid-century travel marketing, emphasizing the significance of religious and cultural destinations like Lourdes. Designed to inspire and attract pilgrims and tourists alike, the poster reflects the era's growing accessibility to air travel and the global reach of iconic carriers such as Air France.
By 1950, air travel was becoming increasingly popular as airlines expanded their networks to include not only major cities but also significant cultural and religious destinations. Lourdes, located in the south of France, is one of the world’s most important pilgrimage sites, renowned for its sanctuaries and the story of Saint Bernadette. Air France, eager to capitalize on the influx of pilgrims, utilized striking visuals to promote their routes to this holy city, making it more accessible to an international audience.
This poster reflects the post-World War II boom in international travel, where destinations that were once considered remote or difficult to access became reachable through burgeoning air networks. For many, a trip to Lourdes held profound religious significance, and Air France positioned itself as the preferred carrier to transport pilgrims from across the globe to this sacred destination. The poster not only marketed a travel service but also underscored the spiritual and cultural importance of Lourdes.
Today, this Air France poster by Edmond Maurus is highly regarded by collectors of aviation memorabilia and religious travel ephemera. Its historical value lies in its connection to the early days of commercial air travel and its role in promoting one of Europe’s most revered pilgrimage sites. The poster is a reflection of the period’s optimism and the expanding horizons of travelers seeking both spiritual and worldly experiences.
This 1950 travel poster serves as a testament to the powerful role of visual art in shaping the aspirations of travelers, capturing the allure of Lourdes and the promise of modern air travel. Edmond Maurus's work remains a cherished piece of history, symbolizing a time when the world was opening up to those seeking to explore its most sacred and beautiful destinations.
Original Poster
Airline - Pyrénées-Atlantiques - Religion - Tourism
Printed by Goosens advertising in France
Very good condition
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