S'il ne pense pas au caniveau, pensez à ramasser Circa 1985

This delightful and cheeky circa 1985 original poster by renowned British illustrator Ronald Searle, titled “S’il ne pense pas au caniveau, pensez à ramasser”, is a perfect example of how humor and civic responsibility can go hand in hand.

Commissioned by the Mairie de Paris, the poster was part of a citywide public awareness campaign promoting cleanliness and ecological responsibility in urban environments. The message is clear—and delivered with wit: "If he doesn’t think of the gutter, think about picking it up." In this case, "he" is a gleeful and oblivious dog, mid-stride, tail wagging, as its well-dressed owner bends down with an expression of exasperated duty, dog bag in hand.

Searle’s unmistakable style—loose, expressive lines paired with vibrant yet restrained color—brings this comical urban vignette to life. The exaggerated pose of the man and the fluffy enthusiasm of the dog add charm and approachability to what might otherwise be a mundane civic message. The elegant backdrop of Parisian architecture and leafy boulevards reminds us that beauty and cleanliness belong together.

Best known for his work in satire and political caricature, Ronald Searle (1920–2011) was a master of observational drawing, and his contribution here transforms a sanitation campaign into a collectible piece of illustrated humor. His ability to blend whimsy with social commentary makes this poster not only effective in its original purpose but also a charming relic of 1980s Parisian culture.

As the tagline aptly puts it: “L’écologie, ce n’est pas seulement à la campagne” (“Ecology isn’t just for the countryside”). This poster is a playful, pointed reminder that environmental care starts right beneath our feet—even on the city sidewalks.

Ecology - Advertising

Ecology is not just for the countryside

Good condition, light soiling