Issued in 1939, on the eve of global upheaval, the “Croisières” poster for the Loterie Nationale captures a fleeting moment of optimism in prewar France. Designed by the duo Derouet & Lesacq, this piece is part of a long tradition in which the Loterie Nationale used evocative themes to inspire dreams of transformation and luck.
This particular edition invited the French public to imagine not just financial gain, but escape and adventure—croisières, or ocean cruises, representing a symbolic departure from the everyday. In a time when the threat of conflict loomed large, such messaging resonated deeply: the lottery ticket became not merely a gamble, but a metaphor for freedom, fortune, and the ability to chart one’s own course.
The 1930s saw a flourishing of commercial poster art in France, where state institutions and private brands alike turned to illustrators to connect emotionally with the public. Derouet & Lesacq, known for their vibrant and accessible style, contributed to this visual dialogue with clarity and charm. Their work for the Loterie Nationale exemplifies the period’s unique blend of optimism, modernity, and public engagement.
The “Croisières” campaign wasn't just about selling tickets—it was about selling possibility. In doing so, it echoed the Loterie’s broader mission: to instill a sense of collective hope during times of uncertainty, and to subtly reinforce the cultural value of state-supported leisure and prosperity.
Today, this 1939 poster stands as both a cultural artifact and a poignant reminder of a world on the brink—where the promise of escape, no matter how fantastical, held deep emotional weight.
Economy - Navy
Printed by Lafayette in Paris
Good condition, small tears, dirt
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