Witty, unexpected, and delightfully anachronistic, this circa 1970 original travel poster for Air France Vacances blends colonial history with modern branding in a uniquely playful composition. Designed to promote Boston as a tourist destination, the poster juxtaposes a classic 17th-century engraving-style scene—presumably depicting early New England settlers and Native Americans—with a bold, contemporary twist: a draped Air France logo rendered in the airline’s signature tricolor.
The image, rendered primarily in fine black-and-white etching lines, evokes the formality and gravitas of a historical woodcut or engraving, commonly associated with the Pilgrim era. But this formal tone is subverted by the bold injection of red, white, and blue, appearing not on a colonial flag, but as a piece of modern branding, seamlessly inserted into the moment as if the Air France banner had somehow made its way into the American colonial past.
The effect is humorous and clever—a visual pun on travel, time, and tradition. It suggests that Air France not only bridges continents but eras, whisking travelers across both geographical and historical landscapes. The tagline “Vacances” (French for holidays) further infuses the composition with a light, leisurely tone, suggesting that even Boston, rich in Revolutionary lore, can be part of a relaxing and cosmopolitan French vacation.
A perfect reflection of 1970s advertising creativity, this poster captures the moment when commercial aviation was becoming widely accessible and tourism was transforming from elite privilege into mainstream aspiration. Its use of irony and visual pastiche feels fresh even today, making it a standout piece in both travel and graphic design history.
Airline - United States - Tourism
Native Americans
Printed by HCM
Good condition, a small tear
Sign up & benefit from discounts or exclusive offers.