Air France USA 1967

Created by Georges Mathieu, this original 1967 Air France poster formed part of an important series promoting destinations across the airline’s international network. Printed in offset by Imprimeries de Bobigny on a metallic silver ground, the design presents the United States through abstraction rather than conventional landmarks, combining fine art with the visual language of Jet Age travel.

Mathieu constructs an imaginary American metropolis from energetic lines in red, white, turquoise and deep blue. The vertical strokes suggest skyscrapers, steel structures and the immense scale of modern cities, while intersecting horizontal lines evoke roads, bridges and industrial networks. The silver background reinforces the impression of metal, technology and relentless urban development.

The destination appears simply as “USA” at the top, rendered in the colours shared by the American and French flags. The monumental Air France name anchors the lower section, creating a controlled framework around Mathieu’s spontaneous gestures. The result captures the dynamism, ambition and technological optimism associated with the United States during the 1960s.

Georges Mathieu (1921–2012) was a major French painter and one of the leading figures of lyrical abstraction. His work emphasized speed, movement and spontaneous calligraphic gestures, often executed directly before an audience. Commissioned by Air France in 1966, his destination posters were completed and presented the following year, marking an important encounter between postwar abstract art and commercial advertising.

With its metallic surface, architectural energy and unmistakable modernist character, this original poster has considerable crossover appeal. It is particularly desirable for collectors of Georges Mathieu, Air France memorabilia, aviation history, American travel advertising and mid-century graphic design, while functioning equally well as an independent abstract artwork.

Original poster

Airline - North America - United States

Draeger Brothers Paris

Good condition