This original French poster was published by Hachette for the 1949 Christmas and New Year season. It features Babar, the celebrated elephant character created and originally illustrated by Jean de Brunhoff, whose books became classics of French children’s literature.
Babar appears in his familiar green suit and yellow crown, riding a bicycle across a brilliant red background. Beneath the pedals, a smaller elephant adds a mischievous comic detail, bringing movement and humour to this wonderfully playful composition.
The poster is distinguished by its remarkably simple graphic treatment. The restricted palette of red, green, yellow, grey and black gives the design exceptional visual impact, while the large hand-drawn white lettering remains clear and immediately recognisable. The inscription Noël 1949 firmly places it within the post-war period.
Jean de Brunhoff introduced Babar to readers in 1931 and established the gentle drawing style that made the character internationally famous. Following his death in 1937, his son Laurent continued and expanded the series, while Hachette promoted the albums to successive generations of young readers.
A charming piece of French publishing and advertising history, this original 1949 poster combines an iconic literary character with bold mid-century design. It will appeal to collectors of Babar, children’s illustration, Hachette publications and vintage Christmas imagery.
Original Poster
Childhood - Fairy Tale
Good condition, stain
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