The term "Original Vintage Poster" refers to the fact that the poster we are selling is from the time it was first created, and not a reproduction printed later. For example, if a poster is listed on our site as "1925", this is the actual poster created in 1925.
The images that we display are generally at least 50 years old, and originated mostly in Europe. They were used to advertise all manner of things - foods, liquors, entertainment, travel, and others. These vintage posters were commissioned by advertisers, using the best commercial artists of the day. Some of those artists are now very well known. Henri de Toulouse - Lautrec is perhaps the most famous of many great poster artists.
Colorful advertising posters first became popular in the late 1800's. The preferred method of printing, called stone lithography, was developed for vintage posters in Paris by Jules Cheret. It was an exciting art form that brought out colors and graphics, and Paris was transformed into a city full of posters. The kiosks on the streets, the sides of building, and the interiors of stores and restaurants were all used to display these exciting new posters. The popularity of original posters quickly spread throughout Europe and North America.
Watch this video to learn from our Creative Director all about how posters survived over the years:
