Relax by Rene Gruau

This 1961 Relax poster by artist Rene Gruau which reads Compagnie Maritime des Chargeurs Reunis (Company of United Shippers) is an image which presents a relaxing maritime scene. The poster, an advertisement for a cruise ship company features a woman illustrated in a typical Gruau stylization lounging on a vibrant red beach chair. She is set amongst an aqua-colored sky and serene oceanic background. The concise style of Gruau and attractiveness of the image makes the viewer wish that they were sitting on board along with the female.

Chargeurs Reunis was founded in 1872 as a shipping company, initially operating between Le Havre and the River Plate. In 1883 it took over the Société Postale de l'Atlantique and started a service to West Africa. In 1894 it took over Compagnie Commerciale des Transports à Vapeur Français, giving it that company's services to New Orleans and the Gulf of Mexico. After the Second World War, the company, headed by Francis Cyprien Fabre, reduced its fleet to some 15 ships. Between 1964 and 1976, the company took over several French ship owners, including Fabre, Fraissinet, Societe Generale des Transport Maritimes, Paquet. In 1979, Chargeurs Réunis was involved in several branches of international transport, including maritime bulk and container shipping and the transport of passengers (Wikipedia).

René Gruau (1909 – 2004) was a fashion illustrator whose exaggerated portrayal of fashion design through painting has had a lasting effect on the fashion industry. Gruau used simplicity of lines and crisp color, particularly, blacks, reds, and yellows to create his images. His sense of fashion and style still resonates with contemporary taste.Gruau is one of the best known and favorite artists of the haute couture world. Gruau’s artwork is recognized and commended internationally in some of Paris and Italy's most prestigious art museums including the Louvre in Paris. In addition to his international fame and recognition, "Gruau's artwork is known for its timeless and enduring style".

To read more about Rene Gruau, click on this link: https://postergroup.com/blogs/the-ross-art-group-blog/rene-gruau-bridging-classic-poster-design-with-modern-advertising

This is an Original Vintage Poster; it is not a reproduction. This poster is linen backed and in excellent condition. We guarantee the authenticity of all our posters.