Monaco Grand Prix Travel Poster (Automobile Club of Monaco, 1930). Poster (31.5" X 47.25").. ...

Description

Monaco Grand Prix Travel Poster (Automobile Club of Monaco, 1930). Poster (31.5" X 47.25").
The "Monaco Grand Prix" was cleverly conceived in the late 1920s by the Automobile Club of Monaco, which originally organized traditional road races all along the Riviera, called "Monte Carlo Rallies." Because they overlapped into neighboring France or Italy, the rallies didn't qualify as "national" races. To gain acceptance as a national Club, the ACM sponsored a race entirely within the principality of Monaco. Painter and illustrator Robert Falcucci (1900-1989) was known at this time for his depiction of automobiles, but what solidified his fame were his Monaco poster designs of the 1930s. This poster announces the second running of the Monaco Grand Prix, and is thought to include the first image created for the competition (the poster for the first year's race was all text). Falcucci goes full throttle here, with the electrifying, pulse-racing image of a driver and his machine screaming across the poster as a magical Mediterranean sunset wanes in the background. René Dreyfus, in his Bugatti T35B, won the race in 1930, but this stone litho deserves a trophy in its own right. Besides being rare, this original poster is nearly flawless, with only light stains in the borders and top right corner. Very Fine on Linen.

Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.