The artwork, titled “Luchon,” is a lithograph created by artist Alphonse Mucha in 1895 and exemplifies the Art Nouveau movement. It measures 105.7 by 75.2 centimeters. This piece serves as an advertisement poster and is currently held in a private collection. The artwork embodies the stylistic elements of Art Nouveau, characterized by its decorative and organic lines.
In the artwork, a man is depicted riding a prancing white horse, which dominates the lower foreground. The rider, sporting a wide grin and a distinctive hat, gazes outward with a sense of dynamism and excitement. The mane and tail of the horse flow dramatically, suggesting movement and a sense of liveliness. The backdrop features picturesque landscapes with inset images of a grand building labeled “Casino” and another marked as “Établissement Thermal”—a thermal establishment—indicating the region’s attractions. The scenic vistas, evoking the beauty of Luchon as the “Reine des Pyrenees” or “Queen of the Pyrenees,” are framed within stylized foliage and decorative elements quintessential to Mucha’s artistry.
Prominent text dominates the upper portion of the poster, advertising the “Chemins de fer d’Orleans” (Orleans Railway), boasting luxury and rapid transit options departing from Paris. This is accented by the bold, stylized lettering of “Luchon,” integrated seamlessly with the graphic elements. The bottom area specifies the season, which runs from “1er Juin au 1er Octobre,” inviting viewers to plan their visit during this timeline. The vivid and harmonious color palette, combined with ornamental details, results in a piece that is not only visually striking but also serves its primary function as an effective advertisement.
