Cascabel
Jules Chéret
French, 1836–1932
1877-79
A bold lithograph poster by Jules Chéret created to advertise the entertainment 'Cascabel' by turning theatrical performers and characters into an alluring, picture-driven spectacle.
The eye is grabbed by the huge, curving title above a crowded tableau—an elegant red‑dressed woman, a large portrait, comic masks and assorted performers—rendered in flowing outlines, soft washes of color and energetic, hand‑drawn shading that feels both theatrical and immediate.
This work showcases Chéret’s pioneering use of multi‑color lithography and lively female figures to transform commercial posters into urban art, helping to invent modern advertising and graphic design.
Medium
Lithograph
Dimensions
50 x 34 13/16" (127 x 88.5 cm)
Classification
Department
Credit
Phyllis B. Lambert Fund
Accession
317.1957
Palette
Exhibitions
