Le Jockey se rendant au poteau 1954

The 1954 original exhibition poster after Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec’s iconic work “Le Jockey se rendant au poteau” is a captivating example of how the legacy of a renowned artist was celebrated and reinterpreted decades after his time. This poster was produced to promote an exhibition at the Galerie R. G. Michel, paying homage to one of the most celebrated figures in the history of French art.

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, whose original painting inspired this poster, was a leading figure in the Post-Impressionist movement. Known for his revolutionary approach to composition and color, Toulouse-Lautrec captured dynamic scenes of Parisian life during the late 19th century. His work frequently depicted the vibrancy of the entertainment world—cabarets, theaters, and racetracks. “Le Jockey se rendant au poteau” is a stunning representation of his fascination with the dynamism of motion and the spectacle of horse racing.

This poster reimagines the original artwork in a format designed to attract attention and draw visitors to the Galerie R. G. Michel. The gallery, active in mid-century Paris, often featured retrospectives and tributes to prominent artists, making it a hub for art enthusiasts and collectors eager to explore the works of masters like Toulouse-Lautrec.

The subject matter of “Le Jockey se rendant au poteau” (The Jockey Riding to the Starting Post) captures the energy and anticipation of horse racing. The jockey, confidently mounted on a sleek horse, strides toward the starting line, embodying a sense of purpose and motion. Toulouse-Lautrec’s distinctive style shines through in the striking use of line and bold, simplified forms, which convey movement and vitality without excessive detail. His ability to distill an entire narrative into a single scene is a hallmark of his genius.

The 1954 poster itself serves as both a promotional tool and an artistic artifact. Exhibition posters from this era were not merely functional—they were often carefully designed, reflecting the spirit of the works they represented. As such, they are now highly sought after by collectors, art historians, and admirers of mid-20th century design. This particular piece stands as a testament to Toulouse-Lautrec’s enduring influence and the continued appreciation of his work in the decades following his untimely death.

For collectors today, this poster represents a bridge between the Belle Époque and mid-20th century Paris, where Toulouse-Lautrec’s legacy was being rediscovered and celebrated by a new generation. Its historical importance lies not only in its association with the artist but also in its role in the broader narrative of how his art was reintroduced to audiences in the modern era.

Whether viewed as a tribute to Toulouse-Lautrec’s unique vision or as a snapshot of the post-war art scene in Paris, this poster remains an evocative reminder of the timeless allure of his work. Its rarity and connection to both a significant artist and a celebrated gallery exhibition make it a prized piece for any collector of fine art or graphic design.

Exhibition - Horse riding

Galerie R. G. Michel

Printed by Mourlot

Very good condition