Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Salon Des Cent Poster," created by Alphonse Mucha in 1896, showcases his signature Art Nouveau style, characterized by its graceful curvilinear forms and intricate detailing. The poster features a striking female figure, typical of Mucha's work, depicted in rich, warm colors and adorned with flowing hair that cascades down in intricate waves, forming an elaborate design around her.

The background of the poster is equally ornate, filled with elaborate floral and vegetal motifs that intertwine harmoniously, creating an organic and rhythmic pattern that captivates the viewer. The woman, likely a personification of artistic inspiration or beauty, is dressed in flowing, classical attire, which further emphasizes the romantic and decorative style Mucha is renowned for.

Her serene and confident expression, combined with the delicate rendering of her features, draws the viewer's attention to the central figure, while the surrounding embellishments highlight Mucha's meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail. The typography in the poster, integrated seamlessly into the overall design, reads "Salon des Cent" and provides contextual information about the exhibition.

Artist: Alphonse Mucha (1860-1939) was a Czech painter, illustrator, and graphic artist, living in Paris during the Art Nouveau period. He is best known for his distinct style, known as the "Mucha Style," which became synonymous with Art Nouveau.

Original Poster: The "Salon Des Cent Poster" was created in 1896 as part of a series of advertisements for the Salon des Cent, an avant-garde exhibition space in Paris organized by the magazine La Plume. These exhibitions featured contemporary artists and were significant in the promotion of modern art. Mucha's poster for this event became one of his most celebrated works, exemplifying his elegant ornamental style.

Current Location: The original lithographic print of this poster can be found in various private collections and museums around the world, including notable institutions like the Mucha Foundation's collection and the Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris. Given the nature of lithographic prints, multiple copies exist, allowing this iconic work to be widely appreciated.

The period during which Mucha created the "Salon Des Cent Poster" was a prolific one for the artist and marked the height of his influence in the Art Nouveau movement. Mucha's evolution from a graphic designer to a celebrated fine artist saw him contributing extensively to commercial art, an innovative concept at the time. His posters, advertisements, and book illustrations were not only commercial successes but also major artistic achievements.

This particular poster embodies the essence of the Art Nouveau movement, with its emphasis on organic forms, elaborate detailing, and the incorporation of modern typography. Mucha's work during this period also contributed to the broader trend of the "Mucha Style," which heavily influenced graphics, jewelry, interior design, and the decorative arts of the era.

1. Symbolism: Mucha often used the motif of an idealized woman as a symbol of natural beauty and artistic inspiration, which can be observed in the "Salon Des Cent Poster."

2. Technique: The intricate use of lines and color, combined with the lithographic printing technique, enabled Mucha to achieve a high level of detail and vibrancy, which became hallmarks of his posters.

3. Cultural Impact: Mucha's work, including the "Salon Des Cent Poster," played a crucial role in popularizing the Art Nouveau movement and influencing contemporary design sensibilities. His posters bridged the gap between fine art and commercial art, paving the way for future generations of graphic designers and illustrators.

In conclusion, the "Salon Des Cent Poster" by Alphonse Mucha is not only an outstanding representation of Art Nouveau but also a testament to Mucha's artistic vision and his lasting impact on visual culture.