About the Artist
Jean Chassaing was an influential figure in the world of early twentieth-century French poster design. Working at the intersection of commercial art and modern graphic innovation, Chassaing embraced the Art Deco movement’s bold visual language. His posters often captured the energy of Parisian nightlife, reflecting a period when illustrated advertising was transforming public spaces and shaping the image of contemporary celebrities.
Chassaing’s work is part of a broader tradition that elevated the poster to an art form, making it both a public announcement and a collectible object. For more from this era, explore our vintage advertising posters and discover dynamic compositions in our music themed wall art.
The Artwork
This 1930 poster celebrates the legendary Joséphine Baker, whose performances epitomized the spirit of the Jazz Age and the cosmopolitan allure of Paris. Created at the height of Baker’s fame, the artwork served as both advertisement and tribute, capturing her magnetic stage presence and the excitement she brought to the city’s cabarets.
Such posters were essential to the visual culture of the time, distilling the glamour and innovation of live entertainment into a single, unforgettable image. They played a key role in building the mythology of stars like Baker, making her instantly recognizable and reinforcing her status as a symbol of modernity and artistic freedom.
Style & Characteristics
The design is a striking example of Art Deco aesthetics, featuring a commanding central figure rendered in simplified, geometric forms. The confident typography and structured layout create immediate visual impact, while the composition suggests movement and theatrical flair without relying on intricate detail.
The color palette is dominated by deep browns, blacks, and beige, punctuated by sharp green and red accents that add vibrancy and focus. The overall mood is glamorous and urban, perfectly suited to the world of jazz, dance, and early modern graphic design.
In Interior Design
This Joséphine Baker poster makes a sophisticated focal point in living rooms, hallways, or home offices, especially when paired with brass, walnut, or leather elements that echo Art Deco interiors. Its tall format and bold presence also complement clean-lined contemporary spaces.
To harmonize with its palette, incorporate neutral textiles and add touches of green or red through ceramics, books, or lighting. For more vertical statement pieces, browse our vertical posters.
