Le bossu au théâtre de la gaieté 1886

A Swashbuckling Spectacle in Belle Époque Paris

This vibrant 1886 lithographic poster for Le Bossu at the Théâtre de la Gaîté captures the theatrical flair and colorful storytelling of late 19th-century Parisian entertainment. Designed and printed by Émile Lévy, the poster brings to life the rakish world of cloak-and-dagger drama, complete with plumed hats, velvet coats, and theatrical posturing.

Based on the popular historical adventure novel Le Bossu by Paul Féval, the play follows the gripping tale of revenge, loyalty, and mistaken identity during the reign of Louis XIV. The central figure—Lagardère, the gallant swordsman with a hunchbacked disguise—is flanked here by richly caricatured characters, drawn with humor and vitality that would have caught the eye of any passerby on Paris boulevards.

Printed in vivid tones of crimson, sepia, and ink black, this poster is a dazzling example of Belle Époque theatrical advertising. The trio’s exaggerated gestures and costumes echo the Commedia dell’arte tradition, while the clean typographic credit to “Imp. Émile Lévy, 36 Rue des Petits Champs, Paris” underscores the craftsmanship behind its production.

Today, this poster not only evokes the golden age of French popular theater, but stands as a collector's gem—a piece of art history that reflects the drama, fashion, and excitement of a Paris eager for spectacle and escapism.

Whether hung in a gallery, study, or collection of rare ephemera, Le Bossu au Théâtre de la Gaîté remains an enduring symbol of theatrical imagination and 19th-century lithographic excellence.

Theater - Show - France

Avant la lettre

Printed by Émile Levy in Paris

Good condition, slight traces of folds