Prix du Jockey Club 1965

The original Prix du Jockey Club poster, designed by Bernard Villemot, captures the energy and elegance of one of France’s most prestigious horse races. Villemot, a master of visual storytelling through poster design, applied his characteristic bold use of color and minimalist forms to this piece. Known for his work in advertising for iconic brands and events, Villemot’s distinctive style combines vibrant colors and striking simplicity, making his posters instantly recognizable.

This particular poster was created for the Loterie Nationale, a French national lottery, and advertises the Prix du Jockey Club, a major horse racing event often referred to as the French Derby. The race, held annually at the Chantilly Racecourse, is a significant event in the French sporting calendar, attracting top horses, jockeys, and racing enthusiasts from around the world. The design expertly conveys the prestige and excitement of the race, blending Villemot's artistic flair with the thrill of competitive horse racing.

At the center of the composition, Villemot depicts five galloping horses, each ridden by a jockey in colorful racing silks. The horses’ sleek forms are rendered in bold, sweeping brushstrokes of white, red, and orange, while the jockeys' yellow and green silks add a vibrant pop of contrast. Villemot’s technique emphasizes movement and dynamism, with the horses seeming to leap forward out of the poster. Their legs are extended mid-stride, capturing the intense pace of the race, while the overall minimalistic design leaves space for the viewer’s imagination to complete the scene.

The poster’s background is a solid, deep green that contrasts sharply with the bright colors of the horses and jockeys, adding to the overall sense of urgency and excitement. At the top, the words “Loterie Nationale” and “Prix du Jockey Club” are displayed in a clean, modern font, providing a clear link to the event and its connection to the French national lottery. The simple, streamlined text reflects Villemot’s ability to balance information with aesthetics, ensuring that the focus remains on the dynamic imagery below.

Towards the bottom of the poster, the prize amount of 3 million francs is prominently advertised, along with the date of the race, Saturday, June 8. This not only emphasizes the stakes of the race but also adds to the poster’s commercial appeal, as it was designed to attract attention and encourage participation in the lottery.

Villemot’s Prix du Jockey Club poster is a prime example of his ability to transform advertising into art. His use of bold colors, simplified forms, and dynamic composition creates a visually striking piece that not only promotes the event but also stands alone as a work of art. The poster’s energetic depiction of the race, combined with its elegant design, encapsulates the prestige of the Prix du Jockey Club and the thrill of horse racing at its highest level.

Collectors and enthusiasts of vintage posters highly value Villemot’s work for its timeless quality and artistic integrity. His ability to communicate the essence of an event or brand through powerful visual imagery has solidified his place as one of the 20th century’s most influential poster designers. The Prix du Jockey Club poster remains a testament to Villemot’s legacy, blending art and advertising in a way that continues to captivate and inspire.

Original Poster

Sport - Riding - Games

National lottery

Jean Laurance Paris

Good condition, traces of folds