Art Nouveau – “Job Cigarette” by Alphonse Mucha
Alphonse Mucha
- Born on 24 July 1860
- Enrolled in the Academie Julian
- Painter, illustration and graphic artist.
- First design poster for Sarah Bernhardt, continue to design stage sets, outfits, and posters for 6 years.
Alphonse Mucha, papier à cigarette (Job), 1896. © Mucha Trust 2018. colour lithograph, 149.2 x 101, 1898
Design Style
At first glance, I was really taken in by how elegant the style of the poster made me feel.
Firstly the depiction of the female figure accompanied with flowy hair that encompasses around the figure gave her the look. The intricate design by the edges and the usages of the curves
lined strokes contributed to the stylization of this poster.
The choice of colors was essential that bring out the elegance vibes in this poster. The artist used muted colours they have mostly warmed tones with splashes of saturated light green. The slight gradient alternating from orange and yellow creates depth.
Only after several looks, I realized it was a poster that was promoting cigarettes. The swirling smoke that fades into the background, It was interesting to see the artist using portray smoking cigarettes in such a feminine way. The curves of her hair were the distinct and unique features of this poster became known as the “Mucha style”.
Other works
As he continues to design for Sarah Bernhardt, his most recognisable work portray an elegant female surrounded by decorative motifs, often utilize the long locks of hair and clothing to create movement in his poster.
Alphonse Mucha, Salon des Cent: exposition de l’oeuvre de Mucha, 1897. © Mucha Trust 2018
Alphonse Mucha, Le Zodiaque, 1896. © Mucha Trust 2018.
Mucha studied her performances and took note of her gesture while she performs her magic, in order to enhance her gesture in the performance. The flowing movements were then incorporated into his many later art works.
Alphonse Mucha, Gismonda, 1894. © Mucha Trust 2018.
Alphonse Mucha, Les Saisons: l’hiver , 1896. © Mucha Trust 2018.
The focus of movement within the art and the decorative motifs. Mucha’ style became one of the most popular style that was associated with Art Nouveau.
References:
https://aphelis.net/alphonse-mucha-job-1898/
