Original Poster - Messageries Maritimes, by A. Brenet - Circa 1950

Created by A. Brenet around 1950, this original poster promotes the transoceanic routes of Messageries Maritimes, an emblematic shipping company of the colonial era and France’s maritime heritage. Designed to advertise cruises to Indochina, India, East Africa, Madagascar, or New Caledonia, it evokes the full imaginary of exotic travel and postwar naval power.

The composition skillfully blends realism with symbolic suggestion: a pristine white liner cuts through an imaginary horizon, set against a sweeping "M.M." boldly brushed across the sky. A terrestrial globe, a sextant, and a nautical map reference geographic precision and the spirit of exploration. The contrasting, colorful typography maps out the possible itineraries, capturing the period's efficient, technically styled illustration, at the crossroads of advertising and mid-century graphic design.

Printed in offset by Paul Dupont, this poster measures 39.4 x 24.6 inches (100 x 62.5 cm), is linen-backed, and is in B+ condition. Despite some signs of age, it retains strong visual impact. A compelling piece for collectors of maritime history, postwar design, or the visual identity of France’s legendary transport companies.