1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster – Jules Cheret – Les Maitres de l’Affiche Pl 53
Jules Chéret, the undisputed father of the modern poster, reached the pinnacle of his artistic prowess in 1889 with his iconic poster for the opening of the Moulin Rouge. This masterpiece, titled “Bal au Moulin Rouge,” is a testament to Chéret’s unparalleled skill in combining vibrant colors, dynamic composition, and evocative imagery to create a visual spectacle that continues to captivate audiences over a century later.
Chéret’s journey to becoming a poster pioneer began in 1858 with his first recorded attempt at poster art for Offenbach’s “Orfée aux Enfers.” While his early work was somewhat crude by today’s standards, it marked a significant departure from the somber, text-heavy posters of the time. Over the next three decades, Chéret refined his technique, mastering the art of color mixing, simplifying layouts, and employing bold typography to create visually striking advertisements.
One of Chéret’s most enduring contributions to the world of poster design was his use of sexuality to sell products. His posters often featured beautiful, carefree women, known as “Chérettes,” who embodied the spirit of the Belle Époque. These alluring figures quickly became popular with the French public, solidifying Chéret’s reputation as a master of advertising.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster is a perfect example of Chéret’s signature style. In the foreground, a Chérette sits atop a donkey, her joyful expression reflecting the excitement of the event. Behind her, the iconic red windmill of the Moulin Rouge stands tall, symbolizing the venue’s allure and the promise of a night of revelry. The surrounding figures, also on donkeys, seem to be whirling around the windmill, creating a sense of movement and energy.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster’s vibrant colors, bold lines, and dynamic composition make it a visually arresting piece of art. The text, which reads “Tous les Soirs & Dimanche Jour Grande Fete les Mercredis & Samedis” (Every Evening & Sunday Day Grand Fête Wednesdays & Saturdays), invites viewers to join the festivities at the Moulin Rouge.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster was issued as plate 53 of the prestigious “Le Maîtres de l’Affiche” series, further solidifying its status as a collectible and cultural icon. In 2021, an original lithographic print from this series sold for a remarkable $2,750, demonstrating the enduring value and appeal of Chéret’s work.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster remains a testament to Jules Chéret’s genius and his pioneering role in the development of the modern poster. Its vibrant colors, dynamic composition, and evocative imagery continue to inspire artists and advertisers alike, making it a timeless masterpiece that transcends its original purpose as a simple advertisement.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster – Les Maitres de l’Affiche Pl 53
Chéret, recognizing the exceptional quality of his creation, included the poster as Plate 53 in his esteemed collection, “Les Maitres de l’Affiche.” This decision speaks volumes about the poster’s artistic merit and its significance within the context of the time.
The late 19th century witnessed an unprecedented surge in poster collecting. People across Europe were captivated by the vibrant colours and innovative designs of these artistic creations. To cater to this growing demand, Jules Chéret established “Les Maîtres de l’Affiche” in 1896. This venture aimed to provide collectors with high-quality reprints of renowned posters in a convenient format.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster, like many other masterpieces of the era, was carefully reproduced as part of this collection. Printed on thick paper measuring approximately 29 x 40 cm, these smaller versions allowed enthusiasts to own and admire these iconic works of art without breaking the bank.
Each poster in the Les Maîtres de l’Affiche series bore distinctive markings. The bottom left corner featured the inscription “Les Maîtres de l’Affiche Pl…, Imprimerie Chaix (Encre Lorilleux & Cie),” indicating the plate number and printer. On the right, a dry stamp showcasing Chéret’s “Concert d’été” lithograph served as the edition’s logo.
To make collecting even more accessible, Chéret introduced a subscription model. Every month, four new posters were bundled into a booklet priced at 2.50 francs. An annual subscription cost 27 francs, and at the end of the year, subscribers could opt for a deluxe, bound edition.
Between 1896 and 1900, a remarkable total of 240 posters and 16 supplements were produced as part of “Les Maîtres de l’Affiche.” This extensive collection offers a captivating journey through the world of Art Nouveau and serves as a lasting tribute to the artistic genius of Jules Chéret.
The 1889 Bal au Moulin Rouge poster remains a highlight of this collection, a timeless masterpiece that continues to enchant viewers with its elegance, creativity, and historical significance. It is a prime example of the artistic fervor that characterised the Belle Epoque and a testament to Chéret’s enduring legacy as one of the most influential poster artists of all time.
