Gyp Bijou Poster Collection Nelson – William Henry Barribal – 1914

Gyp Bijou Poster Collection Nelson – William Henry Barribal – 1914 The image on this vintage Gyp Bijou Poster was created by the renowned English artist and illustrator William Henry Barribal. As a prominent figure in the art deco movement, Barribal’s illustrations captured the spirit of the era, embracing its sleek lines, bold colors, and modern sensibility. His work graced numerous advertisements for luxury brands, including perfumes, cosmetics, fashion, and travel, making a significant impact on the visual culture of his time. Among his most notable contributions to the art world were his depictions of stylish and sophisticated women. Barribal’s illustrations often portrayed elegant, glamorous, and independent women who personified the modern spirit of the early 20th century. Barribal’s artistic accomplishments were not limited to advertising. He also illustrated books, magazine covers, and postcards, further showcasing his artistic versatility. His illustrations adorned the pages of popular magazines, such as “The Sketch” and “The Tatler,” further solidifying his status as a sought-after artist. The magnificent painting by Barribal featured on this listing, depicts a thoroughly modern and sophisticated young woman depicted reclining on a gold settee or chaise lounge. The woman cuts the perfect embodiment of sophistication as she sits reading the latest literary work by Sibylle Riquetti de Mirabeau. The image was used for the book jacket of the 1930 Editions Nelson version of the French novel Bijou by Mirabeau, a French writer who wrote under the pseudonym Gyp. Who was Gyp? Sibylle Aimée Marie-Antoinette Gabrielle de Riquetti de Mirabeau, Comtesse de Martel de Janville, was a notable figure in 18th-century French society. She was born into the esteemed Riquetti family, known for their wealth and influence in France. Sibylle de Mirabeau was the daughter of Victor Riquetti, Marquis de Mirabeau, and sister of Honoré Gabriel Riquetti, comte de Mirabeau, who became a prominent political figure during the French Revolution. Despite her brother’s historical fame, Sibylle carved out her own path and made significant contributions to French cultural and intellectual circles. As a member of the aristocracy, Sibylle de Mirabeau held the title of Comtesse de Martel de Janville, indicating her noble lineage and social standing. Like her mother, Sibylle was renowned for her intelligence, charm, and wit, which made her a sought-after figure in the social and intellectual circles of her time. As a salonnière, Sibylle de Mirabeau hosted gatherings at her residence, where she invited writers, philosophers, artists, and influential figures to engage in discussions on various topics, including literature, philosophy, and politics. Her salons were known for their intellectual ambiance and played a significant role in fostering the exchange of ideas during the Enlightenment era in France. Sibylle de Mirabeau was also known for her literary pursuits and writing talents. She authored several essays and poems, showcasing her intellectual depth and literary flair. Additionally, she was known for her translations of English works into French, further demonstrating her linguistic abilities and passion for literature. Gyp was a prolific writer known for her humorous sketches and novels that fearlessly criticized both her own fashionable society and the political class of the French republic. Her strong dislike for republicanism, populist democracy, and political intrigues was evident, and she openly supported Boulanger. She was also a fervent anti-Semite and anti-Dreyfusard. In fact, during a court case in 1899, she identified herself as an “anti-Semite” rather than as a “writer.” Her writing journey began with articles published in La Vie parisienne in February 1877, followed by contributions to La Revue des Deux Mondes. From 1880 onwards, she adopted the pseudonym “Gyp” and published over 120 works in book form, many of which achieved great success. Some of her notable works include “Petit Bob” (1882), “Les Chasseurs,” “Un trio turbulent,” “Autour du mariage” (1883), “Ce que femme veut” (1883), “Sans voiles” (1885), “Autour du divorce” (1886), “Dans le train” (1886), “Mademoiselle Loulou” (1888), “Bob au salon” (1889), and “L’éducation d’un prince” (1890), among many others. One of her most famous works is “Le Mariage de Chiffon,” which was adapted into a film by Claude Autant-Lara in 1942. Due to her controversial views and opinions, Gyp faced several assassination attempts and even experienced a sensational kidnapping. Despite the challenges she faced for her unpopular beliefs, Gyp continued to write and remained defiant until the end. Gyp, who referred to herself as the “last of the Mirabeaus,” passed away in Neuilly-sur-Seine on June 28, 1932. Her legacy as a bold and unconventional writer endures, leaving behind a body of work that reflects her unique perspective on society and politics. The artist William Henry Barribal William Barribal was a London-born artist whose career started as a lithographer before going on to study at the Academie Julien in Paris.By the early part of the 20th century, Barribal had honed his skills as a highly accomplished painter and designer. Notably, he crafted a series of captivating images featured on recruitment posters during the First World War in Great Britain. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Barribal embarked on an impressive journey, contributing to the Schweppes advertising campaign with a range of striking posters. In 1921, he secured a contract with Waddingtons, where he produced remarkable works that adorned posters and, later, a sought-after series of playing cards.[5][6][7] His bold and iconic Art Deco posters, designed during the 1920s and 1930s for the London and North Eastern Railway, have become renowned examples of his artistic prowess.[8] His wife, Gertrude Louisa Fannie Pitt, frequently served as his principal model, featuring in various works, including cigarette cards.[8] Barribal’s artistic ventures extended to renowned magazines like Vogue, where his talent graced the pages and captivated readers with images of exquisite and fashionable Edwardian women. His timeless depictions have since become classics, and even today, many contemporary fashion artists draw inspiration from the unmistakable “Barribal style”.[9] From exhibitions showcasing his artistry between 1919 and 1938 to his enduring impact on the world of fashion illustration, Barribal’s legacy as a visionary artist continues to shine brightly. His remarkable contributions to the realms of design, advertising, and fashion illustration have left an indelible mark on the art world, ensuring that his masterful creations remain treasured and influential across generations. Over the years, the cover artist Barribal’s work continued to evolve, adapting to changing artistic trends and tastes. He remained an influential figure in the world of commercial art and continued to inspire generations of artists and illustrators. Barribal left a significant mark on the world of advertising and commercial art during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born in London in 1870, Barribal exhibited immense talent from a young age and went on to study at the prestigious Royal Academy of Arts. Today, William Henry Barribal’s illustrations and artworks are treasured as significant contributions to the art deco movement and the history of commercial art. Collectors and art enthusiasts cherish his creations, which continue to evoke the elegance and allure of a bygone era. His legacy endures as a testament to the power of art in shaping visual culture and reflecting the spirit of an era.