About the Artist
Fred L. Parker was a commercial illustrator and poster designer active in the early twentieth century, a period when lithographic advertising played a key role in shaping modern consumer culture. His work reflects the influence of the Art Deco movement, blending artistic sophistication with the practical demands of brand promotion. Parker’s posters contributed to the visual language that defined luxury and aspiration in the era of department stores and urban nightlife.
For those interested in the evolution of graphic advertising, Parker's legacy fits within the tradition of classic advertising posters, where clarity, style, and allure were essential to capturing the public’s imagination.
The Artwork
This poster for Vivaudou Mavis perfume was created in 1920, at a time when fragrance became a symbol of modern sophistication and personal style. The Jazz Age brought new rituals of glamour, and advertising imagery like this invited viewers into a world of elegance and aspiration. The Mavis Irresistible branding evokes confidence and the allure of nightlife, reflecting the changing roles and desires of women in the early twentieth century.
As a vintage perfume advertisement, the artwork also marks a shift in marketing, where the product is paired with an idealized figure to create a sense of immediate desire and fashionable identity.
Style & Characteristics
The composition features a poised Art Deco woman at the center, surrounded by an array of perfume bottles arranged like a curated display. Crisp silhouettes, simplified forms, and strong symmetry define the design, hallmarks of 1920s graphic style. Bold typography anchors the scene, seamlessly integrating the figure, product, and brand message.
A deep black background sets off vivid accents of red, blue, and yellow, resulting in a high-contrast, jewel-toned palette. The overall mood is sleek and theatrical, capturing the spirit of Art Deco luxury and modernity.
In Interior Design
This vintage poster brings a touch of old-world glamour to bedrooms, dressing areas, hallways, or home offices. Its dramatic contrasts and elegant composition make it a striking choice for Art Deco-inspired interiors, especially when paired with brass, dark wood, or mirrored surfaces.
To echo the artwork’s palette, consider black accents and touches of red, blue, or yellow in your decor. For more inspiration, explore our frames collection or discover additional tall format pieces in vertical posters.
