The artwork titled “Save Your Money,” created by Leonetto Cappiello in 1920, is a prime example of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement. This piece, categorized as an advertisement poster, effectively conveys its message through both imagery and text.
In the artwork, a man wearing a traditional worker’s garb with rolled-up sleeves and a red waist sash is depicted standing beside a potted fruit-bearing tree. The tree, flourishing with vibrant, ripened fruit, has a banner draped around its branches that reads, “Économisez votre argent pour en tirer le meilleur fruit,” which translates to “Save your money to reap the best fruit.” The background is a contrasting dark shade, making the brightly colored fruits and the man more prominent. Below the main illustration, in bold letters, is the text “UNION FRANÇAISE,” and further detailed information about the association follows. This poster blends a strong visual motif with a clear, didactic message, characteristic of Art Nouveau’s blend of style and functionality.
