La Mer Joie Force Santé

This vibrant and cheerful original vintage poster was issued by the Chemins de fer de l'État (French State Railways) in the 1930s to promote seaside holidays along France’s Atlantic coast. A smiling sailor holds up a roundel map proudly highlighting the rail network—“Le réseau des 600 plages”—emphasizing access to over 600 beach destinations. Bold text at the bottom reads: “La Mer – Joie, Force, Santé” (The Sea – Joy, Strength, Health), capturing the optimistic spirit of interwar tourism.

The poster is illustrated in a bold Art Deco style by Eu. Gire, with strong colors, simplified forms, and a focus on health, leisure, and national pride. The slogan “L’été c’est l’État” plays on the dual meaning of État as both “summer” and the French state railway.

Chemins de fer de l'État, often referred to as the Réseau de l'État, was a major French state-run railway company before its 1938 merger into the SNCF. It was originally established to consolidate ten smaller, struggling lines operating between the Loire and Garonne rivers.

A joyful and patriotic piece of early 20th-century French travel design, perfect for collectors of railway memorabilia or vintage tourism posters.

In very good condition. Light edge wear and foxing. The main image remains clean and vibrant. Would look stunning framed on a wall.