JOB, 1898

Description

This is a Mucha classic by any criterion. From the circular motif and refined composition to the bold and harmonious use of colors and type-even down to the “deliciously designed hands,” as L’Estampe et l’affiche put it in 1898-it all comes together with unsurpassed grace, beauty and force. The two features most conspicuous in Mucha posters are combined here; the meandering tresses and the circular background. From Mucha’s religious background and mysticism, it is evident that the circle, to him, symbolized infinity and universal harmony. It is interesting to note that both this and the poster Mucha did for JOB two years earlier feature a central female figure, a circular pattern, and plentiful tresses – and both were extremely successful.