AIR FRANCE. AFRIQUE OCCIDENTALE

Just after the end of the war, France had to provide airline service to its colonies. A new type of poster appeared, promoting tourist attractions. The airline drew on mythology and highlighted the clash of cultures: pagodas and riverboats, in contrast to the modernity and mechanics of the airplane. A recurring design incorporated the airplane, underscoring the opposition between travel geared for the future and the immutability of these countries. The Africa that Air France flew over was an eternal land of folklore. The posters were parables echoing the relationship of now-dated colonial thought: modernity versus secular tradition. Lithograph poster printed by Alépée & Cie, linen backed, A condition. Dimensions in inches:  19.3 x 12.2''.