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Collectible Description

Art of War: World War II Propaganda . “A Arte da Guerra – Propaganda da II Guerra Mundial”. The exhibition (Dec 18, 2010 - Sep 30, 2011) showcased propaganda produced during the world conflict, through examples that show that the war was fought not only in the battlefield, but also in the background, as the people of the involved nations were mobilised in an active support of the war effort by the powerful images in the posters. The printed poster was the main form of propaganda, especially since it was easy to produce and could be glued almost anywhere, so that the message was always present among the citizens, asking them to give more of themselves, produce more and sacrifice themselves for the sake of the war effort. The posters were also the most democratic way of reaching equally all kinds of people. In the United States alone, more than 3000 different posters were produced. The temporary exhibition showed propaganda under the light of an art form, which it has assumed, carrying the purpose of any other work of art: to raise emotions and change the world.

Artist Biography

Jean Carlu: Pioneer of Visual Branding and WWII Propaganda

Jean Carlu (1900–1997) stands as a significant figure in French graphic design, celebrated primarily for his distinctive Art Deco and Cubist posters—particularly those produced during World War II to bolster American industrial output. Born in , he was the younger brother of architect Jacques Carlu, whose monumental Palais de Chaillot in Paris exemplifies modernist architectural ambition. From 1919 until 1921, Carlu honed his skills as an illustrator before securing a position at an advertising agency where he began to forge his artistic path. It was here that he conceived his inaugural Art Deco poster—a bold declaration for Charlie Chaplin’s film “The Kid,” marking the genesis of his stylistic evolution. Carlu's fascination with Cubism, fueled by the pioneering explorations of Juan Gris and Albert Gleizes, profoundly shaped his aesthetic sensibilities. Recognizing the power of visual communication to instill a particular message within the public consciousness, he championed the strategic deployment of schematic forms and expressive colors—techniques that remain integral to the unmistakable character of his posters and other artworks. This innovative approach distinguished him from contemporaries and cemented his legacy as one of the earliest adopters of principles now recognized as foundational for effective branding. His artistic fame rests principally on two enduring masterpieces: a monumental poster commissioned for Monsavon tobacco and an iconic depiction of the Théâtre Pigalle cabaret—works that continue to captivate audiences with their masterful composition and emotive color palettes. Beyond these celebrated pieces, Carlu’s contribution extends to the creation of a groundbreaking label for Château Mouton Rothschild's 1924 vintage—a testament to his versatility and artistic vision within the realm of commercial design.

Key Influences: Cubism (Juan Gris, Albert Gleizes), Art Deco style
Notable Works: Monsavon Poster, Théâtre Pigalle Poster, Château Mouton Rothschild Label
Technique: Schematic Forms & Expressive Colors – Pioneering Visual Branding

Carlu’s artistic impact transcends mere stylistic innovation; he embodies the spirit of a generation grappling with societal transformation and embracing new artistic languages. His posters serve as tangible reminders of a pivotal moment in history—the urgent need for propaganda to galvanize national resolve during wartime—while simultaneously demonstrating the enduring power of visual art to communicate ideas and emotions effectively.

Historical Significance: Championed Visual Branding During WWII – Influenced by Cubist Principles
Legacy: Recognized as One of the First to Utilize Schematic Forms & Expressive Colors for Brand Messaging

Further exploration into Jean Carlu’s oeuvre can be found at Musée National Jean-Jacques Henner, where visitors can immerse themselves in a captivating collection of Symbolist paintings and portraits. Detailed information about his artistic achievements is available on MoMA. For additional insights into his work during WWII, consider examining America’s Answer Production and Join A.R.P..

Jean Carlu

1900 - 1997

Quick Facts

Artistic Movement Or Style: Art Deco & Cubism
Artists Or Movements Influenced By This Artist: ['Cubism']
Artists Who Influenced This Artist:
- Juan Gris
- Albert Gleizes
Date Of Birth: 1900
Date Of Death: 1997
Full Name: Jean Carlu
Nationality: French
Notable Artworks:
- America’s Answer Production
- Monsavon poster
- Théâtre Pigalle
Place Of Birth: France

Jean Carlu: The Full Collection

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Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Reproduction Medium

Reproduction Frame

White $1

Blurside $1

Extended $1

P118B $10

P118H $10

P118W $10

P438Z $10

P508JH $12

P508YH $12

P805H $10

P805Z $10

P919BZ $10

P919G $10

P919XJ $10

P959ZH $10

P968JZ $12

W106C $8

W218G $10

W218JH $8

W218Y $10

W307PJ $10

W316G $10

W316PJ $8

W316Y $10

W398PJ $8

W4111J $10

W500HY $15

W500JH $15

W692G $12

W849H $8

W940BG $15

W953PJ $8

H24-GOLD $40

H24-SILVER $40

H36-GOLD $60

H36-SILVER $60

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Giclée / Art Print

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$ 70

Collectible Description

Artist Biography

Jean Carlu: Pioneer of Visual Branding and WWII Propaganda

Quick Facts

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