Designer: | Mathieu, Georges (1921-2012) |
Country: | France |
Decade: | 1960 |
Year: | 1967 |
Dimensions: | 100.0 x 60.0 cm | 39.370078740000004 x 23.622047244 inches |
Condition: | Good | | B |
Publisher: | Air France |
Printed by: | Draeger, Paris |
Category: |
Airline/Aviation |
This is an original 1967 vintage Air France poster designed by French artist Georges Mathieu to promote Mexico as a travel destination. Set against a deep red background, the poster features a bold and energetic abstract composition in thick, impasto-style paint. The central form is reminiscent of a traditional Aztec or Mayan mask or headdress, interpreted through Mathieu’s signature expressive lines and vibrant color blocks in black, yellow, red, green, blue, and orange.
The word “Mexico” appears in orange at the top, while “Air France” is printed in a strong, matching hue at the bottom. Three circular orange dots on the left add rhythmic balance to the composition. Signed by the artist in the lower left corner.
Part of a celebrated series of 16 posters unveiled on October 26, 1967, at the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, this series was commissioned under the direction of Pierre Sautet, then Deputy Commercial Director of Air France. These works are iconic for combining abstract art with mid-century travel promotion.
This poster shows some signs of age: pinholes, a tiny hole, creasing, and margin wear — all consistent with vintage display and handling. Still, it remains a vibrant and collectible example of postwar travel advertising and modern art.