-
"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
-
"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
-
"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Louis Rhead was a British-born illustrator and poster designer who became a leading figure in American graphic arts at the turn of the 20th century. Renowned for his contributions during the golden age of color lithography, Rhead helped define the visual language of modern advertising, infusing commercial art with the elegance of fine art traditions.
His work is closely associated with the Art Nouveau movement, characterized by flowing lines, idealized figures, and ornamental detail. Rhead’s posters remain highly regarded for their ability to merge artistic sophistication with the demands of mass communication, as seen in many works featured in our vintage advertising posters and Art Nouveau masters collections.
The Artwork
Created in 1890, this poster was commissioned to promote Lundborg Perfume at a time when department stores and luxury brands were transforming urban streetscapes with bold visual advertising. The image was designed to elevate perfume from a simple commodity to an emblem of refinement and individuality, reflecting the era’s fascination with personal style and modern living.
The central figure—a woman holding a bouquet—serves as a metaphor for the allure and sensory pleasure of fragrance, connecting nature’s beauty to the world of luxury goods. This approach typifies how late 19th-century posters turned everyday products into aspirational experiences for a rapidly growing city audience.
Style & Characteristics
The poster exemplifies Art Nouveau aesthetics through its stylized female figure, undulating contours, and decorative floral elements. The composition is designed for immediate impact, with clear outlines and harmonious forms guiding the viewer’s gaze across the image.
A soft palette of yellow, purple, and white creates a luminous, airy atmosphere, while the overall effect is both polished and handcrafted. The graceful pose of the woman and the abundant bouquet reinforce the themes of elegance and sensory delight, making this a quintessential example of vintage Art Nouveau poster art.
In Interior Design
This fine art print brings a touch of Parisian elegance to bedrooms, dressing areas, or reading nooks, where its gentle colors and refined imagery add warmth without overwhelming the space. Its floral and feminine theme also suits beauty spaces and boutique interiors, lending period charm to contemporary decor.
Pair with soft whites, brass, or walnut accents, and echo its hues with lilac ceramics or a yellow floral arrangement. For a cohesive gallery wall, combine with other purple tones or works by Art Nouveau artists to create a sophisticated, harmonious display.