Acatene Metropole" poster, early 20th century

Poster "Acatene Metropole" from the beginning of the 20th century.
Ed. Kossuth.
Measurements: 155 x 116 cm.

Antique advertising poster created by artist Charles Tichon for the French bicycle brand Acatène Métropole, dating from about 1895-1896. The word "Acatène" is derived from the privative prefix "A" and the Latin word "catena" (chain), promoting chainless bicycle technology with bevel gear transmission.

Posters such as the one now being auctioned are highly valued in the art market because they reflect the social, cultural and technological changes of an era marked by modernity and progress. Beyond their advertising function, they became an accessible art form that helped define the visual identity of cities, brands and lifestyles. Through their dynamic images, striking colors and innovative compositions, they promoted new habits related to leisure, tourism, sports and mobility, while conveying ideals of elegance, freedom and sophistication. They also played a fundamental role in the evolution of modern graphic design, especially under the influence of Art Nouveau and Art Deco, becoming today valuable historical and cultural testimonies of their time.