The 1934 Art Deco poster for "Ouistreham Riva Bella" by the talented artist Willy Mucha is a brilliant example of interwar period design and a celebration of modern tourism. Commissioned by the Chemins de Fer de l'État (State Railways of France), this work embodies the golden age of travel promotion through stunning visual artistry.
Mucha’s design captures the elegance and optimism of the Art Deco movement. The poster features bold geometric shapes, streamlined forms, and a harmonious blend of muted and vibrant colors. Dominated by a striking red buoy and a towering lighthouse, the composition invites viewers to imagine the allure of Ouistreham Riva Bella, a coastal gem in Normandy. The inscription “Caen 14 km. Paris 220 km.” reinforces the proximity and accessibility of this destination, highlighting the convenience of travel by rail.
The maritime theme is underscored by the depiction of sailboats, the shimmering sea, and the suggestion of wind and movement, all elements that evoke the freedom and leisure of a seaside retreat. The angular typography, characteristic of the Art Deco style, adds to the poster’s modern appeal. Its bold lettering emphasizes the slogan, “A 3 heures de Paris St Lazare,” inviting city dwellers to escape to the coast in just three hours via the Paris-Saint-Lazare railway line.
Mucha’s poster not only serves as an advertisement for Ouistreham Riva Bella but also as a celebration of French ingenuity in transportation and tourism. By focusing on both the destination’s natural beauty and its accessibility, this piece reflects the spirit of the 1930s, when the burgeoning middle class embraced travel and leisure as a new way of life.
Today, this poster is highly regarded among collectors of Art Deco design and travel memorabilia. Its timeless aesthetic and historical significance make it a coveted piece, embodying the era’s artistic innovation and the romance of 20th-century travel. Willy Mucha’s work continues to transport viewers to a bygone age of elegance, adventure, and discovery.
Original Poster
Tourism - Railway - Calvados
3 hours from Paris St-Lazare, sea and tourism network - Caen Normandy
Printed by H. Chachoin in Paris
Good condition, slight creases
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