This artwork is an Art Nouveau color lithograph poster created by Alphonse Mucha in 1903. The poster was designed for the 1904 World’s Fair in St. Louis, Missouri, an event which is highlighted in the text on the poster indicating that the exposition was held from April 30 to November 30 of that year.
The lithograph depicts a seated woman in Neoclassical attire with flowing hair, clasping the hand of a Native American, who is kneeling by her side. The woman personifies the city of St. Louis, while the Native American represents the original inhabitants of the United States. Both figures are adorned with floral and leaf patterns typical of the Art Nouveau style. The poster features elegant curvilinear forms, organic motifs, and a harmony of colors, with the two figures centrally framed by a detailed background that incorporates text, decorative borders, and stylized elements. The inclusion of stars and a symbol of a gear wheel further enhance the theme of progress and international unity.
Beneath the central imagery, there is additional text providing information about the exposition’s significance and details for those interested in learning more about France’s participation in the event. The French Republic (République Française) and details for contacting the French government regarding the exposition are also provided. At the bottom of the poster, Alphonse Mucha’s signature can be seen, along with the indication that the poster was printed by F. Champenois in Paris.
