This 1953 original poster by Jean Garcia was produced for the SNCF as part of its celebrated “Visitez la France” campaign, designed to promote regional tourism through the expanding post-war French rail network. Dedicated to Brittany (Bretagne), it highlights the region’s dramatic coastline, historic villages, and distinctive architectural heritage.
The composition cleverly frames the Breton seascape as if seen through a train window, subtly reinforcing the railway travel theme. A slender church spire rises above traditional houses, while the Atlantic shoreline, small boats, and lush greenery evoke both tranquility and escape. Garcia’s use of clear colours, simplified forms, and careful perspective reflects the elegant modern travel-poster style of the 1950s.
Such posters played a significant role in post-war tourism revival, encouraging domestic and international travellers to rediscover France’s regional diversity by train. Brittany, with its maritime character, Celtic heritage, and scenic landscapes, was particularly well suited to this visual narrative.
Today, this poster stands as a fine example of mid-century French railway advertising — valued both for its artistic charm and for its historical testimony to the golden age of illustrated travel promotion.
Original Poster
Railway - Tourism - Advertising - France
Take our trains and coaches
Printed by S.C.I.P. in Paris
Good condition, tears repaired
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