Handelsschule Neuchatel Switzerland

This is an original vintage lithograph poster from 1941, promoting the Höhere Handelsschule Neuchâtel (Higher Commercial School of Neuchâtel). Designed by Paul Attinger, the image is a striking example of Swiss graphic design from the early 1940s.

Rendered in a bold monochrome palette of burnt orange, white, and black, the composition centers on a stylized, close-up portrait of a man in deep concentration, his eyes intensely fixed forward. He is holding a pencil thoughtfully to his mouth, suggesting contemplation, focus, and intellectual engagement—qualities aligned with business or academic life. The shading and stylization of the man’s features create a sense of depth and seriousness, underscoring the poster's message about taking the next step in life through education.

The German text reads:
"Den Schritt ins Leben sichert die Höhere Handelsschule Neuchâtel"
(“The step into life is secured by the Higher Commercial School of Neuchâtel”)

The typography is clean and powerful, using bold sans-serif fonts with strong alignment and contrast. The name “Neuchâtel” stands out prominently at the bottom in large black lettering, anchoring the visual impact.

This lithograph is linen-backed, a preservation method that adds stability and makes it ready for display. It is described to be in excellent condition, with only minimal creasing and small tears along the edges, making it a highly collectible piece of educational and design history.