Cycles Anvers-Velos Poster. c. 1923

Striking original Belgian advertising poster for Cycles Anvers-Velos, a bicycle maker based in Antwerp. The design centers on a powerful racing cyclist in a red and white jersey that reads “ANVERS VELOS,” riding a pale bicycle along the waterfront. Behind him, the historic Antwerp skyline rises above the Scheldt, with barges and sailing boats reflected in shimmering yellow water. The tall Gothic spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady anchors the right side of the image, making the city unmistakable. A vivid yellow sky fills the background, making the red figure and boats glow, while a deep chocolate-brown border frames the entire scene.

The typography is clean and modern. “CYCLES” appears in silver at the top, while “ANVERS-VELOS” runs boldly along the bottom in large white letters. A reserved “AGENT:” panel allows a local shop name to be added. Designed by the artist Cello and printed in Brussels by Société Anonyme Belge, this lithographic poster combines bold color blocks, simplified forms, and a classic view of Antwerp, making it a beautiful example of interwar Belgian commercial art and an ideal focal point for any cycling- or design-themed wall.

This poster has been archivally and professionally linen-backed.

Virtually all original vintage posters of this era were viewed as temporary advertising and were printed on fragile, thin paper. While expensive, linen backing is a conservation method used to mount, stabilize, preserve, and protect vintage posters, allowing them to be displayed or framed without compromising their value.

This poster is an original first printing, not a reproduction.

Year: 1923
Artist: Cello
Printer: Société Anonyme Belge, Bruxelles

Size: 57 x 82.5 cm (22 ½  x 32 ½  inches)

Posters are sold unframed. Framed images are display ideas only.

This is a one-of-a-kind item; please review the photos carefully to determine the condition.

This item is listed on multiple platforms, and availability is subject to prior sale elsewhere.