Date: 1894
Size: 34.5 x 49 inches
Artist: Chéret, Jules
"The poster advertises the publication of a serialized novel ('Madame Sans-Gêne' or 'Madame without-shame') in the newspaper, 'Le Radical', the narrative of which was based on a popular play written by Victorien Sardou. Serialized fiction became very popular in the nineteenth century. The general public could more easily afford a newspaper than a book and consequently, many well-known authors chose to publish their work in a serialized format to enable their literature to reach a wider audience." (www.victoriaandalbert.com)
The story tells of the curious life of Catherine Hübscher, an outspoken 18th-century laundress who became the Duchess of Danzig. The historical comedy-drama is beautifully advertised here by Jules Chéret (1836-1932), the French painter and master lithographer. As the first artist to make his reputation in the medium of poster art and help it become an aesthetic art form onto itself, Chéret was able to turn any ad into a tableau - a true work of art. His joyous, elegant women (known as Chérettes) once enlivened the streets of France, and now his plain-speaking rags-to-reaches Madame Sans-Gêne can bring zest and color to your life!
Linen backed and in B+ condition.