Salon des 100 poster – 14e Exposition Salon des 100 – Fernand Fau – 1895
Salon des 100 Poster by Fernand Fau
This is a quality reproduction print of an original Salon des 100 poster, created by the French illustrator Fernand Fau to advertise the gallery’s 14th exhibition in 1895. Fau’s work was widely published in popular journals around the turn of the 19th century. This poster beautifully captures a scene of grace and refinement within the art gallery.
An Elegant Design
The Salon des 100 poster portrays an elegant lady exploring the artworks on the gallery walls at 31 Rue Bonaparte. Dressed in a long, flowing blue and white dress, she exudes an air of sophistication. She wears yellow evening gloves and an extravagant hat with a large ruffle and two opulent feathers, reminiscent of goat horns, giving it a daring touch. A white cape completes her ensemble, bestowing an ethereal quality.
Engrossed in her artistic exploration, the art aficionado momentarily halts her walk to study a piece that has caught her eye. Her focused attention is evident as she studies the artwork through a pair of lorgnettes.
The 14th Salon des 100 Exhibition
This exquisite Salon des 100 poster was produced to herald the arrival of the 14th exhibition. The artwork is boldly inscribed with the words “14e Exposition” and proudly announces the gallery location as 31 Rue Bonaparte. A notable detail on the poster states the modest entry fee of 50 centimes, ensuring that the artistic marvels within the Salon of the 100 were accessible to a diverse audience.
What was the Salon des 100 or Salon des Cents.
The Salon des 100, or Salon des Cent, was an innovative art exhibition that played a key role in Paris’s artistic landscape during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Located at 31 Rue Bonaparte, it was founded in February 1894 by Léon Deschamps, who also ran the influential art magazine, La Plume.
What made the Salon des 100 unique was its focus on making art accessible to a wider audience. The gallery sold a dynamic collection of posters, prints, and reproductions at reasonable prices. It quickly became a hub for showcasing the cutting-edge work of contemporary graphic artists and was a vital platform for emerging talents to connect with a diverse public.
The Salon des 100 hosted a series of exhibitions until 1900, leaving an indelible mark on Parisian culture. One of its most notable legacies is the transformation of its promotional posters into highly sought-after collector’s items. The very advertisements used to draw visitors became works of art themselves.
By providing a space for both established and new artists to share their creations, the Salon des 100 acted as a bridge between the traditional art world and the evolving sensibilities of the new century. It was an integral part of Paris’s rich artistic heritage, enabling artists to engage with a broader public and inspiring new artistic directions.
Who was Fernand Fau?
Fernand Fau (1858–1915) was a French illustrator and cartoonist known for his work in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Operating under the pseudonym “Fanfare,” he was a versatile artist whose work appeared in numerous journals, magazines, and theatrical productions in Paris.
Fau was a notable figure in the vibrant artistic scene of Paris, particularly during the Belle Époque. He created illustrations for famous satirical magazines like Chat Noir and Le Rire. His work also included illustrations for children’s books and witty satires of societal norms.
One of his most significant contributions was his involvement with theatrical shadow shows at the renowned cabaret Le Chat Noir. He lent his visual storytelling to productions like “Le Secret du manifestant” and “Une Affaire d’honneur,” enhancing the performances.
Fau was also adept at the Art Nouveau style, as evidenced by his participation in the Salon des Cent exhibitions, for which he created the Salon des 100 poster. Despite working among famous names like Toulouse-Lautrec and Mucha, Fau’s work left an indelible mark on the era’s cultural landscape.
How much is an original 1895 Fernand Fau Salon des 100 poster worth?
The value of an original 1895 Fernand Fau Salon des 100 poster can vary significantly based on factors such as its condition, rarity, size, design, and overall demand among collectors. While original copies are scarce, they do appear at auctions and private sales from time to time. For example, in 2023, an original lithographed print was auctioned in New York.
The poster was graded as “Condition B” and was described as having creases, abrasions, losses, repaired tears, and replaced losses in the margins, with some slightly affecting the text and image.
This poster, having survived for over 120 years, was listed with a guide price of between $600 and $900. This suggests that a copy in better condition—Grade A—would likely fetch a significant amount more. For those who can find and afford an original, it can be a smart move, not only for owning a slice of artistic history but also as a potential investment that could appreciate in value over time.
For most people, however, investing in even an entry-level collectible poster isn’t a possibility. This is where high-quality reproductions come in. They cost a mere fraction of the price and, once framed, can exude an air of sophistication that effortlessly enhances any room. With a range of sizes available, they can perfectly fill any wall space. Order your Salon des 100 poster today!
