“MAITRES DE L’AFFICHE”
MASTERS OF THE POSTER: A BRIEF HISTORY

by Vintage Advertising Collective on Monday, September 11, 2017

Plates from the Maitres de l’Affiche (Masters of the Poster) collection included 256 color lithographic plates delivered to monthly subscribers in sets of four beginning in 1895 and continuing through 1900. The collection was reproduced from the original posters of ninety-seven artists in a smaller 15 3/4 x 11 3/8 inch (40 x 29 cm) format. The individual plates were issued as separate numbered sheet, with the printer’s name, “Imprimerie Chaix,” in the margin at the bottom left hand corner and blind stamp.
This smaller format and the fact the “Maitres” were a paid subscription allowed the printer to use the latest state-of-the-art printing techniques not normally used in the large format posters. High-quality paper was used, whereas the posters were usually printed on lesser quality newsprint. This explains why the quality of the printing, in the “Maitres de l’Affiche,” usually far exceeds that of their larger counterparts.
Au Violon “Maitres de l’Affiche” Plate No. 103
Theatre & Opera

by Jules-Alexandre Grun
Printed 1898
Artwork originally created in 1897

The Chieftain “Maitres de l’Affiche” Plate No. 48
Theatre & Opera
by Dudley Hardy
Printed 1896
Artwork originally created in 1895

Because of their beautiful colors, stunning images, relatively small size and affordable prices “Maitres de l’Affiche” are highly collected sought after.
Aux Trois Quartiers “Maitres de l’Affiche”
Plate No. 211
by Rene-Louis Pean
Originally created as a full size poster that advertised oriental rugs at the Aux Trois Quartiers on the grand Boulevard de la Madeleine
The Quest of the Golden Girl “Maitres de l’Affiche”
Plate No.128
by Reed

 Mothu et Doria “Maitres de l’Affiche”
Plate No. 46
by Theophile Steinlen

 See more available Maitres de l’Affiche prints

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