Vienne sur la Rhone poster – Vienna Travel Poster – H Léfty – 1920

Vienne sur la Rhone poster – Vienna Travel Poster – H Léfty – 1920 This fabulous Vienne sur la Rhone poster is a must-have for any lover of ancient history, classical Roman architecture, or French railway posters. Published in 1920 by the PLM French railway (Compagnie des chemins de fer de Paris à Lyon et à la Méditerranée), this piece is not your typical advert from the golden age of travel. While it may not boast the bold colors of some contemporary works, the poster’s charm lies in its understated elegance. Created by the French illustrator H Léfty, the artist expertly showcases its ancient Roman roots through a detailed depiction of the Temple d’Auguste et de Livie or Temple of Augustus and Livia that stands proudly in the heart of Vienne. The muted colour palette and its architectural rendering exude a timeless classicism, transporting you back to an era of grand architecture and Roman rule. As the name suggests, the temple was dedicated to the Roman emperor Augustus and his wife Livia. Augustus, the adopted son of Julius Caesar, was the first Roman emperor and played a pivotal role in shaping the empire’s destiny. Livia, known for her intelligence and political acumen, was a powerful figure in her own right and held significant influence during Augustus’s reign. The temple served as a tribute to their leadership and solidified their divine status in the eyes of the people. The monument is constructed of six Corinthian columns at the front and sides which are adorned with intricate acanthus leaf capitals that add a further touch of elegance and sophistication to the poster. The beautifully crafted Vienne sur la Rhone poster is keen to inform us that it is not just the Roman temple that would be worthy of a visit, but that there are other sights to see as well. The poster entices us with the text Vienne sur le Rhone – Monuments Romaines et du Moyen Age… Vienna on the Rhone – Roman and Middle Ages Monuments. The text is complemented with two further illustrations. On the left we are presented with the front facade of the Gothic Cathedral of Saint Maurice in Vienne, France, a breathtaking masterpiece of medieval architecture, standing as a testament to the city’s rich history and spiritual heritage. Built between the 12th and 13th centuries, the cathedral has weathered centuries of change, witnessing pivotal moments in Vienne’s past and captivating visitors with its enduring beauty. To the right is the Pyramide, located on the Plan de l’Aiguille or Needle Square. Erected in the 1st Century, the imposing structure, built with brick and stone, served as a final resting place for prominent families in Vienne. Its current location is also believed to have been the Central Monument of the city’s Roman circus. Original copies of this Vienne sur la Rhone poster, printed by Cornille & Serre currently command an asking price of over €1,200.