Exposition de Charlet | Maitre de L’Affiche: Plate #194

This artwork is from Les Maitres de L’Affiche series; miniature versions of outstanding stone lithograph artworks of the most important advertising posters by the finest artists. The text reads, “Exhibition of the works of the (Nicolas-Touissaint) Charlet (a Romantic-era illustrator of the Napoleonic wars) and of modern lithographs. Organized by the Society of French Lithographic Artists and sponsored by the ministry of education and fine arts…” Willete pokes fun at the artist, for whose exhibition he has designed the poster. He shows a very serious old soldier of the Napoleonic wars, saluting a young man while both are distracted by a cheeky young woman, shirt open, who mocks them. A beautifully drawn and well balanced humorous composition.