Bernard Villemot (1911 - 1989)
View Artist Biography




Title:
Bernard Villemot Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe – 1974 Iconic French Horse Racing Poster
Date:
1974
Size:
11" 15"
Medium:
Lithograph
Price:
$329.00
INV. #:
24074
This magnificent Bernard Villemot Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe poster is a masterpiece of modernist sports advertising and captures the prestige and pageantry of one of the world's greatest horse races. Created in 1974 and printed by the prestigious Imp Jean Laurance, this original lithograph celebrates the annual Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe held at Longchamp Racecourse in Paris—an event synonymous with elegance, tradition, and sporting excellence.
Bernard Villemot was one of the twentieth century's most celebrated graphic designers, and his Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe poster exemplifies why. The composition features five modernist jockeys mounted on racehorses, rendered in Villemot's signature style: bold, simplified forms with striking color contrasts that command immediate attention.
The horses and riders are distilled to their essential visual elements—no unnecessary detail, only pure kinetic energy. Villemot's use of flat color and minimalist line work creates a sense of dynamic forward motion that perfectly captures the urgency and drama of the race itself. The jockeys' vibrant silhouettes, positioned at varied angles, suggest the intense competition and split-second timing that define the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
The color palette is quintessentially Villemot—bold, confident, and unforgettable. Bright accent colors pop against deeper tones, creating visual rhythm and excitement that leaps off the page. This is not a realistic depiction of a horse race; it is the distilled essence of racing passion, designed to inspire excitement and celebration among spectators and lottery players alike.
The large format print size amplifies Villemot's bold design philosophy, making this Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe poster an ideal focal point for galleries, sports collections, or anyone who appreciates modernist design excellence. The original lithograph has been professionally conservation-mounted on acid-free archival linen backing and remains in mint condition—virtually untouched since its original printing, a rarity for a poster of this era.
Bernard Villemot (1911–1989) created iconic imagery for decades, and his work for the Loterie Nationale and sports advertising represents his maturity as a designer. Collectors worldwide treasure his posters for their timeless visual impact and historic importance to twentieth-century graphic design.
Comes with Certificate of Authenticity. IVPDA-certified dealer; your satisfaction guaranteed.
Bernard Villemot was one of the twentieth century's most celebrated graphic designers, and his Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe poster exemplifies why. The composition features five modernist jockeys mounted on racehorses, rendered in Villemot's signature style: bold, simplified forms with striking color contrasts that command immediate attention.
The horses and riders are distilled to their essential visual elements—no unnecessary detail, only pure kinetic energy. Villemot's use of flat color and minimalist line work creates a sense of dynamic forward motion that perfectly captures the urgency and drama of the race itself. The jockeys' vibrant silhouettes, positioned at varied angles, suggest the intense competition and split-second timing that define the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe.
The color palette is quintessentially Villemot—bold, confident, and unforgettable. Bright accent colors pop against deeper tones, creating visual rhythm and excitement that leaps off the page. This is not a realistic depiction of a horse race; it is the distilled essence of racing passion, designed to inspire excitement and celebration among spectators and lottery players alike.
The large format print size amplifies Villemot's bold design philosophy, making this Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe poster an ideal focal point for galleries, sports collections, or anyone who appreciates modernist design excellence. The original lithograph has been professionally conservation-mounted on acid-free archival linen backing and remains in mint condition—virtually untouched since its original printing, a rarity for a poster of this era.
Bernard Villemot (1911–1989) created iconic imagery for decades, and his work for the Loterie Nationale and sports advertising represents his maturity as a designer. Collectors worldwide treasure his posters for their timeless visual impact and historic importance to twentieth-century graphic design.
Comes with Certificate of Authenticity. IVPDA-certified dealer; your satisfaction guaranteed.
