Florence - Roger Broders

In this 1921 travel poster by renowned French artist Roger Broders, the city of Florence is rendered in a jewel-toned twilight, reflecting across the gentle flow of the Arno River. The focal point is the Ponte Vecchio, Florence’s most iconic bridge, with its distinctive overhanging shops aglow in warm golden hues. Above, a blanket of stars spreads across the deep blue sky, and the dome of San Frediano glows in the background, casting the city as timeless and serene. The effect is almost theatrical — as if Florence has been carefully lit for an evening performance.
This poster was commissioned by the Chemins de Fer Paris–Lyon–Méditerranée (PLM), the rail company that operated luxury routes across France and into Italy. It advertises travel to Florence aboard the Rome Express, a deluxe international train service connecting Paris to Rome with stops in cultural capitals along the way. During the early 20th century, posters like this one helped popularize European rail tourism, transforming once-distant destinations into must-see stops for the educated and affluent traveler.
Roger Broders (1883–1953) was among the most celebrated travel poster artists of the Art Deco era. He was known for his clean lines, vibrant palettes, and stylized compositions that elevated both place and travel experience. Though he produced fewer than 100 posters in total, Broders’ work remains iconic — capturing the golden age of European rail travel with precision and elegance. This particular piece is a rare and striking example of his early work, signed and dated "Roger Broders 1921" in the image.
This is an Original Vintage Poster; it is not a reproduction. It is conservation mounted, linen backed, and in excellent condition apart from slight toning in the margins. We guarantee the authenticity of all our posters.