Fete De Charite | Maitre de L’Affiche: Plate #89

This artwork is from Les Maitres de L’Affiche series; miniature versions of outstanding stone lithograph artworks of the most important advertising posters by the finest artists.

“This poster serves as an appeal for the families of French sailors lost at sea; the charity fete was held at the Palais du Trocadero. However, even without the bottom text banner, Cheret’s moving scene has a mute appeal that says it all” (Rennet, PAI-XXXVII, 231)

A deeply moving poster, done in somber tones, that shows a young boy crying out for help from his distraught mother’s arms. Behind them another mother and child watch anxiously as rescuers work to save the men from a shipwreck, while the sea rages mercilessly. This design is in stark contrast to the bright dancing beauties we expect from Cheret. Not unlike the master Steinlen, in his compassionate handling of this serious subject (see PL.134).

Text reads, ‘Charity ball given at the Tracadero Palace, June 14, 1890, for the benefit of the Aid Society for Families of Shipwrecked Sailors; 87 rue Richelieu (Paris) Founded by Mr. Alfred de Courcy