This original 1938 French railway poster by Pierre Matossy promotes the Abbey of Saint-Wandrille in Normandy. Commissioned for the SNCF and printed in Paris by Rotophot, it presents one of the historic monastery’s most distinctive architectural features: the Porte de Jarente.
Matossy depicts the monumental gateway with an expressive, painterly quality. The richly ornamented stone arch and imposing blue doors dominate the composition, while two monks standing nearby introduce a quiet human presence and emphasise the contemplative atmosphere of the abbey.
Soft blues, greens and warm earth tones capture the character of the Norman landscape and architecture. The fluid outlines and visible brushwork lend the scene the intimacy of a watercolour while retaining the visual strength required of a railway travel poster.
Pierre Matossy was a French painter, engraver and poster artist who created several celebrated designs for French railway companies. The Porte de Jarente, constructed during the eighteenth century, forms part of the historic Benedictine Abbey of Saint-Wandrille, founded in Normandy during the seventh century.
An evocative example of interwar French travel advertising, this original poster combines railway history, religious heritage and accomplished illustration. Its atmospheric portrayal of one of Normandy’s important monuments makes it particularly appealing to collectors of French tourism posters and architectural subjects.
Original Poster
Tourism - Normandy - Religion - France
Printed by Rotophot in Paris
Good condition, some soiling, pinholes
Sign up & benefit from discounts or exclusive offers.