Published circa 1900 as number 9 in Auguste Roubille’s Le Musée de Sires, this original poster printed in color lithography portrays Leopold II, King of the Belgians from 1865 to 1909. Its deliberately altered caption, “Cléopold II,” immediately signals the irreverent tone of the series.
The king appears almost immobile while embracing a woman in a sweeping white dress. His long beard, closed eyes and rigid evening clothes contrast with the fluid movement of her body. A rich purple background intensifies the theatrical and faintly decadent character of the scene.
Rather than presenting an official royal portrait, Roubille reduces the sovereign to an instantly recognizable silhouette. The composition plays upon the tension between public authority and private reputation that made European monarchs frequent subjects of the illustrated press.
Auguste Roubille was among the versatile artists of Belle Époque Paris, working as a painter, decorator, illustrator and political caricaturist. His designs combined the economy of modern poster art with the sharper observations of editorial satire.
This uncommon sheet offers collectors a striking example of French political caricature, distinguished by its elegant palette, bold line and historically significant subject.
Original Poster
Caricature - Press - Belgium
The museum of Sires - Guelerie Contemporaine number 9
A. Malverge Paris
Good condition, folds, small tears
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