A dazzling artifact of Belle Époque Paris, this original circa 1890 poster by G. Lion captures the exuberant spirit of the era's vibrant cabaret and café-concert scene. Designed for L’Écho de la Gaîté Française, a lively venue at 65 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Denis, the poster is an explosion of energy, movement, and music.
Rendered in bold red and blue lithography, the illustration places a vivacious performer at center stage—decked out in harlequin attire, mid-song, baton in hand, and surrounded by swirling notes and mischievous vignettes of performers, dancers, and attentive patrons. Every corner of the composition bursts with theatrical charm and playful caricature, hallmarks of the French illustrated press and entertainment advertisements of the time.
G. Lion’s style is unmistakable: animated, cheeky, and teeming with detail. This poster likely served as promotional material for the cabaret’s revue publication or live program guide—L’Écho, or "The Echo," of all things festive and risqué in turn-of-the-century Paris.
A rare and delightful example of pre-Art Nouveau graphic art, this piece is a collector’s gem for anyone passionate about Parisian nightlife history, vintage posters, or early French popular culture. It radiates the flirtatious humor and joie de vivre that defined an entire generation of Montmartre revelry.
Original Poster
Advertisement - Show - Cabaret - France
Good condition
Sign up & benefit from discounts or exclusive offers.