Marrakech Circa 1930

The circa 1930 original poster by Jacques Majorelle, titled “Marrakech”, is a stunning representation of both the artist’s fascination with Morocco and his remarkable ability to blend vibrant color palettes with the rich, exotic imagery of North Africa. Majorelle, a French painter who settled in Morocco in 1917, is most renowned for his depictions of the country’s landscapes, people, and culture. This poster reflects his passion for Marrakech, the city where he lived and built his famous garden, the Jardin Majorelle, which would later become a world-renowned landmark.

Majorelle's poster highlights the intersection of colonial-era exoticism and modernist artistic sensibilities. In this piece, he portrays an African woman sitting amidst lush tropical vegetation, emphasizing her cultural adornments and the natural surroundings. The use of bold colors and strong contrasts, especially with the deep greens and earthy browns of the foliage, are a hallmark of Majorelle’s style, which often borrowed from the Orientalist tradition but infused it with a modernist’s sense of abstraction and emotional intensity.

The woman’s posture is relaxed yet commanding, as she seems deeply connected to the land and nature around her. Her intricate jewelry and adornments reflect the artist’s attention to the details of indigenous culture, which Majorelle deeply admired. His works are often celebrated for their respectful and evocative portrayals of local life, avoiding some of the more stereotypical and reductive images often seen in European depictions of North Africa during the colonial period.

Majorelle’s connection to Marrakech and Morocco is well-documented. His time in the country deeply influenced his artistic direction, and he became one of the most important European artists to depict the Maghreb. His posters, paintings, and designs not only served to advertise Morocco as a destination during the colonial period but also immortalized the country's allure and its vibrant cultural heritage.

The poster’s overall mood is one of tranquility and connection with nature. The soft sunlight filters through the banana leaves, creating a serene, almost dreamlike atmosphere. The earthy tones of the poster, particularly the greens and browns, reflect the landscape of Morocco, while the depiction of the woman adds a personal, human touch to the otherwise naturalistic scene.

Majorelle was known not only for his posters and paintings but also for his deep love for the culture of Morocco, which is evident in this work. His appreciation for the landscape and the people of Marrakech comes through clearly in this depiction, offering viewers a window into the artist’s own experience of the country.

Today, Majorelle’s work is widely recognized as a vital contribution to the history of French art and the cultural history of Morocco. His posters, like “Marrakech”, serve as both artworks and historical documents, offering insight into how Morocco was viewed and represented in European art during the early 20th century. Furthermore, they continue to inspire admiration for their beauty, technical skill, and emotional depth.

In summary, Jacques Majorelle’s “Marrakech” poster from circa 1930 is a masterful blend of exoticism, natural beauty, and human presence. It reflects the artist’s deep connection to the country that shaped his artistic vision and stands as an enduring testament to the power of cross-cultural inspiration in art.

Original Poster

Art Deco - Orientalism - North Africa - Morocco

Very good state