In the heart of 19th-century Paris, the art scene flourished with an unparalleled vibrancy, attracting connoisseurs and creators from around the globe. One pivotal event that captured this artistic fervor was the Salon des Cent, an exhibition renowned for showcasing original drawings and prints. Among the standout pieces promoting this event was the 1896 poster by the acclaimed Belgian artist Armand Rassenfosse.
Rassenfosse's poster, created for the "Exposition de Dessins Originaux et d'Estampes," held at the Hall de la Revue "La Plume" at 31 Rue Bonaparte, Paris, is a masterful example of Art Nouveau design. The poster's central figure, a nude woman holding a diminutive fairy-like figure on her hand, immediately draws the viewer's eye. This juxtaposition of the ethereal and the corporeal symbolizes the transformative power of art, a common theme in Rassenfosse's work.
The use of warm, earthy tones and fluid lines in the poster exemplifies the Art Nouveau style, which sought to harmonize artistic creativity with the natural world. The text, integrated seamlessly into the design, provides crucial information about the exhibition while complementing the overall aesthetic. The Salon des Cent was known for its inclusivity, offering a platform for both established and emerging artists, and Rassenfosse’s poster reflects this spirit of artistic democracy.
The event, held from November 9 to the end of December 1896, was a significant cultural moment, inviting the public to immerse themselves in the world of original art and prints. Fridays were reserved as special viewing days with an entry fee of one franc, while other days offered access for fifty centimes, making art accessible to a broader audience.
Rassenfosse’s contribution to promoting the Salon des Cent highlights his skill not just as an artist, but as a visual communicator adept at capturing the essence of an event in a single image. His work on this poster is a testament to the enduring appeal of Art Nouveau and its impact on poster art as a medium.
Today, this poster is more than a promotional piece; it is a window into the artistic culture of late 19th-century Paris. It stands as a historical artifact that offers insight into the era’s aesthetic values and the vibrant art community that characterized the time.
In the annals of art history, Armand Rassenfosse's 1896 poster for the Salon des Cent remains a celebrated piece, illustrating the power of visual art to capture and convey the essence of an artistic movement. Its legacy continues to inspire appreciation for the convergence of art and life during a pivotal moment in cultural history.
Exhibition - Literature - France
Hall of the magazine "La plume"
Chaix Paris
Good condition, traces of folds
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