This original circa 1950 French advertising poster was created by Albert Brenet for Ets Martell in Cognac. Entitled Chai de Réserve, or “Reserve Cellar”, it offers a fascinating view inside one of the historic cellars used to mature the house’s cognac.
The composition reveals seemingly endless rows of wooden barrels arranged beneath the dark timber structure of the cellar. Two workers handling a barrel provide a sense of scale, while the strong perspective draws the viewer deep into the vast interior.
Brenet employs a rich palette of brown, charcoal, ochre and muted grey to capture the subdued atmosphere of the ageing cellar. Light falling across the central passage contrasts with the shadowy ranks of barrels, bringing depth and quiet drama to this industrial scene.
Albert Brenet was a distinguished French painter, illustrator and poster designer celebrated for his depictions of maritime, transport and industrial subjects. His confident draughtsmanship and expressive handling of colour enabled him to document working environments with both accuracy and artistic vitality.
An evocative record of traditional cognac production, this original poster would make an excellent addition to a collection devoted to Albert Brenet, Martell, French spirits, industrial heritage or mid-century advertising.
Original Poster
Alcohol - Cognac - France
Good condition
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