Created in 1936 by A. M. Cassandre for the French wine merchant Nicolas, this original advertising poster is a striking demonstration of typography transformed into imagery. Through a carefully constructed arrangement of letters, Cassandre reduces the company’s name to a bold and immediately recognizable graphic composition.
A monumental white “N” dominates the black central panel, while the remaining letters of “Nicolas” appear behind it in yellow, orange, red, violet, blue and green. Their overlapping forms create rhythm and depth, inviting the viewer to reconstruct the complete name. A metallic-looking frame and patterned golden border give the design the appearance of an elegant shop sign or decorative plaque.
Founded in Paris in 1822, Établissements Nicolas became one of France’s most prominent wine merchants. The company developed a sophisticated visual identity through collaborations with leading artists and designers, particularly for its catalogues and printed advertising. Cassandre’s work for Nicolas placed typography at the centre of the brand’s communication, expressing both modernity and refinement.
A. M. Cassandre was the professional name of Adolphe Jean-Marie Mouron, one of the most influential graphic designers of the twentieth century. Celebrated for such iconic works as Nord Express, Normandie and Dubo Dubon Dubonnet, he combined Art Deco geometry, monumental lettering and exceptional visual economy. This Nicolas design perfectly illustrates his conviction that typography could function simultaneously as language, architecture and image.
With its compact format, vivid colours and exceptional typographic construction, this original 1936 poster is particularly desirable for collectors of Cassandre, French wine advertising and Art Deco graphic design. It would make a refined addition to a dining room, wine cellar, bar or interior devoted to twentieth-century design.
Original poster
Art Deco - Alcohol - Advertising
Very good state
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