Grande Brasserie Van Velsen Fres Bornhem 1894

This elegant 1894 lithographic poster by Armand Rassenfosse was created to advertise the Grande Brasserie Van Velsen Frères, a Belgian brewery based in Bornhem. With its minimalist composition and refined palette, the poster perfectly exemplifies the Art Nouveau aesthetic that was flourishing in European graphic design at the time.

Rassenfosse, a Belgian artist closely associated with the likes of Félicien Rops, brings his delicate yet striking sensibility to this advertising piece. The central figure—a woman in soft pastel tones with stylized auburn hair—lifts a glass to her lips, her face subtly framed and partially obscured by the transparency of the glass. The artwork achieves a sense of motion and grace with remarkable restraint, making it a standout example of the quiet sophistication typical of Rassenfosse’s visual language.

The vivid red typography boldly announcing the brewery’s name anchors the composition, creating a stark contrast with the muted, almost ethereal quality of the image. This tension between bold text and soft figure is part of what makes the poster so visually memorable.

This design was selected for inclusion in Les Maîtres de l’Affiche (Plate 12), the prestigious turn-of-the-century publication that collected the finest examples of poster art by the most influential designers of the era. Rassenfosse’s contribution holds a unique place in this canon, bridging fine art and commercial appeal with quiet authority.

For collectors of Art Nouveau, Belgian graphic design, or early beer advertising, this poster offers both aesthetic beauty and historical resonance. It’s a subtle, stylish tribute to both craftsmanship and refreshment.

Advertising - Alcohol - Belgium

Poster masters Pl.12

Printed by Chaix

Bon état