Peace and Conflict in the Twentieth Century
January 7, 2012 § Leave a Comment
As a means of communication, the poster is a megaphone. It reflects the attitudes and enthusiasms of a period in history at high volume.
Original "Le Portatif Gramophone" poster by Anonymous, c.1935
No one understands this better than Elizabeth Norris, owner of Vintage European Posters, a Berkeley based dealer of original vintage posters. “You can have a visual experience of every time period of the past century when you spend time with vintage posters,” says Norris, “they deliver history with a palpable punch.”
Vintage European Posters’ showroom features 2012’s first show “Peace and Conflict in the 20th Century.” The show is organized chronologically. It begins with the decadence of the Belle Epoque Period when liquor flowed and posters were gilded with elements of Art Nouveau: flowing tendrils, seaweed, flowers.
Original "Old Manada Rum" poster by Trourdey, c.1895
Original "La Bourboule" poster by Sim, c.1895
Original "This Device on Hat or Helmet Means U.S Marines" poster by Charles Buckles Falls, c.1917
It also features posters from both wars and the Art Deco Period.
Original "You Knock em Out" poster by John Falter, 1942
Original "Miel Alphandery" poster by Illegible, 1932
The show ends with the expansion of commercial aviation and post war prosperity.
Original "Air France Amerique du Sud" poster by Victor Vasarely, 1959
Original "Vins Clapion" poster by Omnes, c.1955
Peace and conflict in the 20th century runs through the month of January at Vintage European Posters showroom in Berkeley. The showroom is open three weekends, January 7-8, 14-15 and 21-22 as well as every Tuesday from 11-5. Vintage European Posters is always available by appointment as well. View the collection at www.vepca.com anytime.
VEP owner Elizabeth Norris and showroom manager Charly Leys in the VEP Showroom
Vintage European Posters 2201 Fourth Street in Berkeley, corner of Allston Way
Two blocks south of University, across from Wine.com
Open Saturdays until 6 pm, Sundays and Tuesdays from 11-5
