ADRIEN BARRERE (1877-1931) LA MARMOTTE. Circa 1910. 55x38 3/4 inches. Wall, Paris. Condition B+: restoration and minor restored losses in top and bottom margins; creases in image. After studying both law and medicine, Barere decided to become a caricaturist, working almost exclusively for the performing arts. His first posters were for cafe concerts, doing bold caricatures of the stars of the moment, such as Polin, Dranem, Fragson and Eugenie Fougere. Powerful drawing, broad outlining and inventive layouts are the main characteristics of his distinctive style. Later in his career he was under contract with Pathe Films and the Grand Guignol (a horror theatre in Paris). He also worked for different touring troupes such as this one. His drawing is always firm and boldly outlined with a rich palette. Regardless of the stature of the performer or the venue being promoted, Barrere designed posters that were always full of life and eye catching, even for minor plays such as this.
