ADOLFO HOHENSTEIN (1854-1928) MONTE CARLO / TIR AUX PIGEONS. 1900. 46 3/4x32 1/4 inches, 118 3/4x82 cm. G. Ricordi & C., Milan. Condition B: restored losses and overpainting in lower text and image; repaired tears, creases and restoration in image and along vertical and horizontal folds; margins trimmed. Framed. At the turn of the century, Monaco was already considered to be the most elegant resort on the French Riviera, thanks in large part to the flair and dynamic presence of Mr. Blanc, the owner of the Casino and surrounding palaces. He understood the importance of advertising and commissioned the best artists of the day to help promote his properties. Alphonse Mucha designed Monaco Monte - Carlo in 1897 as well as stock posters for his theatres, and Jules-Alexandre Grün and Hohenstein designed posters depicting the stylish and exotic activities that were available to wealthy patrons. Hohenstein's first effort was in 1900, promoting motorboat races. He followed that with this image touting the pigeon shooting tournaments in the region. The work is atypical for a travel poster as it depicts a dandy with a shotgun against a soft background with few geographic features, an indistinct Art Nouveau flourish and a brightly-colored title. The unexpected inclusion of the dead pigeons and spent cartridges in the lower left corner add a dramatic touch to the image. Ricordi 167, Maitres 1900 p. 124, Manifesti Italiani p. 62, Schardt p. 127.
