Velodromo de Barcelona. 1898.

Artist: ADRIÀ GUAL (1872-1943)
Size: 35 x 50 3/4 in./89 x 129 cm
Condition: B+/ Slight tears and stains, largely at edges.
Printer: Lit. Hijo de Gual, Barcelona
Reference:
Key Words: Art Nouveau; Spain; Bicycles

Velodromo de Barcelona. 1898.
Gual presents us with a veritable vision of Modernismo, saturated with Mucha-esque decorative elements and Catalan imagery. Just like Paris, Barcelona experienced a bicycle boom in the 1890s; several cycling clubs were born, including Peña Ciclista, the organizers of this charity event at the Bonanova Velodrome in Barcelona to benefit victims of flooded villages. The day's events included international races to be awarded with art objects, cash prizes, and commemorative medals; a military band and municipal band promised to liven up the party. This velodrome was Barcelona's first such venue; the initiative was launched by The Cyclist magazine—the official body of the Barcelona Society of Velocipedalists—and was opened in 1893. Along with regular bike races, the venue was also home to cricket, tennis, and soccer matches, and it was the first playing field of Fútbol Club Barcelona. This is a two-sheet poster—and rare!