This original 1926 poster printed in lithograph was designed by Jean Carlu for the Aquarium of Monaco and its celebrated Oceanographic Museum. It was printed in Paris by Éditions d’Art Robert Lang, whose name appears along the lower margin.
Against a deep black background, Carlu constructs an imaginary marine creature from the overlapping forms of a fish, an eel and other aquatic elements. Metallic grey, vivid red, yellow and turquoise create a mysterious underwater atmosphere, while the unusual hybrid animal immediately captures the viewer’s attention.
The bold geometric lettering and radically simplified composition reflect the emerging Art Deco and Modernist movements of the 1920s. Rather than offering a scientifically accurate representation, Carlu created a powerful visual symbol intended to convey the variety, strangeness and fascination of marine life.
Jean Carlu was one of the leading figures of twentieth-century French poster design, alongside Cassandre, Paul Colin and Charles Loupot. Influenced by Cubism, he developed a distinctive graphic language based on simplified forms, strong contrasts and an exceptionally clear visual message.
Considered one of Carlu’s most accomplished and recognisable designs, Aquarium de Monaco is an important example of French Art Deco advertising. Its dramatic composition and rare marine subject make it a particularly desirable original poster for collectors of Modernist graphic design, Monaco memorabilia and historic travel advertising.
Original Poster
Fish - Art Deco
Oceanographic Museum
Robert Lang Paris
Very good state
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