About the Artist
Charles Tichon was an influential figure in the vibrant world of late nineteenth-century French commercial illustration, a period when Paris emerged as the epicenter of modern poster art. As part of the Belle Epoque lithography movement, Tichon crafted images designed to capture the attention of passersby in the bustling urban landscape.
His posters exemplified the era’s blend of artistry and marketing, transforming everyday products into icons of modern life. Tichon’s legacy endures in the graphic innovations that defined this golden age of advertising. Discover more in our vintage advertising posters and famous artists collections.
The Artwork
Created in 1895 during the height of the bicycle craze in France, Cycles Bastaent Paris reflects a time when cycling became a symbol of freedom and progress. Posters like this one were commissioned by manufacturers eager to stand out in a rapidly growing market, using striking visuals to promise speed, modernity, and leisure.
This artwork captures the optimism of the Belle Epoque, when new technologies like the bicycle were reshaping daily life in Paris. It stands as a testament to the cultural shift toward mobility and the pleasures of urban exploration at the dawn of the modern age.
Style & Characteristics
The poster centers on a lone cyclist in vigorous forward motion, set against a bold blue background that evokes the open air and vitality of cycling. Strong diagonal lines and simplified forms emphasize movement and clarity, while the prominent Belle Epoque lettering anchors the brand’s identity.
The vivid blue palette dominates the composition, complemented by accents of white and yellow, creating a fresh and energetic mood. The overall design is both direct and stylish, characteristic of fin de siècle French poster art that merges illustration with graphic impact. For more works in this spirit, browse our cycling themed wall art or explore the blue palette collection.
In Interior Design
This vintage poster brings a dynamic Parisian flair to interiors, especially those that blend historical charm with modern simplicity. It pairs well with industrial elements like metal and leather, or with light woods that allow the artwork’s color to shine.
To harmonize with its palette, consider navy textiles, off-white walls, and brass accents. The poster also complements curated gallery walls and spaces dedicated to vintage or cycling-inspired decor.
