A.M. Cassandre (Adolphe Jean-Marie Mouron) 1901–1968 Nord Express vintage poster

Caption Brief: In this magnificent poster, Cassandre perfectly portrays the two most important factors in early rail travel: romance and speed. Our eyes are both focused on the geometric whirl of the wheels and the seemingly endless far-off horizon. The size and power of the engine is so brilliantly executed that one can almost feel that solid wall of hot air hitting you as it races by.

1927

41½ h × 29¼ w in (105 × 74 cm)

Hachard, Paris

Provenance: Collection of William Crouse

Condition: Cond B+: with faint attenuation of colors, foxing, points of discoloration, and touched-up losses. Dimensions provided are of sight; work has not been examined out of frame. Framed behind acrylic measuring 45.375 × 33.5 inches.

Literature: The Art Deco Poster, Crouse, p. 254; Cassandre/BN, p. 12; Cassandre/Weill, p. 53; Mouron, 10; Brown & Reinhold, p. 9; Cassandre/Suntory, p. 49; Deco Affiches, p. 27; Avant Garde, p. 162; Word & Image, p. 80; Art Deco, p. 77; Weill, 310; Affiche Réclame, p. 80; Modern Poster, p. 155; PAI-XCI, 177