Normandie

This poster is arguably the most iconic work of Cassandre (1901-68) and the single best-known image of the Normandie ocean liner, which entered service with the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique in 1935. The Normandie was conceived as a showcase of French Art Deco design and technological prowess and it was the largest superliner ever built, even requiring the extension of piers. The simplicity and symmetry of Cassandre’s frontal view of the looming hull of the liner immediately conveys its gigantic scale and streamlined elegance. Cassandre developed a striking visual language inspired by avant-garde art in Paris and counts among the most important graphic artists of the 20th century.

poster · Paris · 1935. Colour lithograph on paper backed on cotton. By Cassandre. Victoria and Albert Museum, London.