Published circa 1900 as number 7 in Le Musée de Sires, this original poster printed in color lithography depicts Umberto I, King of Italy from 1878 until 1900. The humorous caption calls him “Humberto il Moustachu,” emphasizing his most recognizable physical feature.
The king stands in a dark ceremonial uniform against a vivid orange background. His enormous moustache, feathered hat, decorations and rigid stance are amplified to comic proportions, while a framed portrait introduces an additional satirical detail.
Roubille captures the theatrical appearance of European military monarchy at the close of the nineteenth century. The composition was produced during the final period of Umberto’s reign and therefore possesses a particularly direct connection with the politics of its time.
Auguste Roubille was a French painter, poster designer and prolific contributor to the illustrated press. His confident outlines, flat colors and preference for exaggerated silhouettes made his work especially effective in both advertising and caricature.
With its powerful orange-and-black palette and immediately recognizable subject, this original poster offers strong decorative presence alongside its significance as a document of Italian royal history.
Original Poster
Caricature - Press - Italy
The museum of Sires - Guelerie Contemporaine Number 7
A. Malverge Paris
Good condition, small tears
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