Palais de Glace 1894

This original 1894 poster by Jules Chéret advertises the Palais de Glace, the fashionable ice-skating rink located on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. Issued as a supplement to Le Courrier français, it captures the growing popularity of skating as both a modern leisure activity and an elegant social occasion during the Belle Époque.

At the centre of the composition, a stylish young woman glides confidently across the ice. Her brilliant red costume, feathered hat and luxurious white fur boa create a theatrical silhouette, while her raised arm and billowing skirt suggest effortless speed. Smaller skaters appear in the background, reinforcing the lively atmosphere of the rink without distracting from the principal figure.

Chéret uses a restricted but striking palette of red, deep blue, pale turquoise and cream. The hand-drawn lettering curves around the skater and becomes an active part of the composition. Colour, typography and movement work together to create an image that is immediately readable while retaining a light and spontaneous quality.

Jules Chéret was one of the great pioneers of the modern advertising poster. His graceful and independent female figures, popularly known as “Chérettes,” appeared throughout the streets of Paris and became symbols of Belle Époque modernity. Through his innovative use of colour lithography, Chéret transformed everyday advertising into a joyful and highly decorative art form.

Combining Parisian history, winter sport and the unmistakable elegance of Chéret’s graphic style, this original poster is a particularly appealing example of late-19th-century French advertising. It will interest collectors of Belle Époque posters, early colour lithography, ice-skating imagery and historic views of Parisian leisure.

Original Poster

Art Nouveau - Fashion

Champs Elysees - Supplement at the number of the French courier

Chaix Paris

Good condition, traces of folds