Georges Sérès Bicycles – c. 1922

$1,350.00

La Bicyclette – Georges Seres
Construite par le Célèbre Champion Francais, dans les Ateliers de Construction Mécaniques de l’Indre

Georges Seres Bicycles
Built by the Famous French Champion in the Workshops of Indre.

This rare and visually arresting poster features Georges Sérès, one of the premier track cyclists of the 1920s, captured mid-race in full stayer gear, including a heavy leather helmet, French National Team jersey, and black leather racing shoes. Sérès was renowned for his dominance in motor-paced racing, winning the 1920 World Championship in the discipline.

Beyond its bold graphic appeal, the poster has a remarkable provenance. Over 15 years ago, we acquired the remaining known examples in a direct purchase in France. During a restoration of Sérès’ former home, the posters were discovered hidden in the attic walls—used as insulation and likely untouched since the 1930s. We acquired all 32 that were found, carefully had them linen-backed, and have retained the majority in our collection. To the best of our knowledge, no other originals are known to exist. It never ceases to amaze us what lurks in the attics of Europe!

A true gem for collectors of cycling history, vintage sport, or early 20th-century design.

This poster has been professionally and archivally linen-backed, a vital conservation step for original vintage posters of this era, which were printed on extremely thin, fragile paper intended for short-term advertising use. Though costly, linen backing stabilizes and preserves the artwork, allowing it to be safely displayed or framed without compromising its value or historical integrity.

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

Year: c. 1930
Artist: Unknown
Publicité Wall, 14, Rue Lafayette, Paris

Size: 120 x 160 cm (47 x 63 inches) – Linen Backed Archival Mounting

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.

In stock

Description

Georges Sérès: Tough As His Leather Helmet…

Georges Sérès (1884–1951) was a prominent French cyclist renowned for his prowess in motor-paced racing, known as demi-fond. Born in Condom, France, he began his professional career in 1905 and quickly gained recognition for his speed and endurance on the track. Sérès achieved significant success, securing the World Championship title in 1920, followed by a silver medal in 1924 and a bronze in 1925. His dominance extended to national competitions, where he clinched the French demi-fond championship five times between 1919 and 1925. Additionally, he triumphed in the Six-Day Races in Paris in 1921, 1922, and 1924, partnering with notable cyclists such as Oscar Egg and Émile Aerts. In 1922, Sérès endured a severe accident in New Bedford, suffering 17 fractures after being struck by a pacer during a race. Despite this, he made a remarkable recovery and continued to compete at the highest levels.

Beyond his racing achievements, Sérès contributed to the sport by establishing a bicycle manufacturing company bearing his name. The brand became synonymous with quality and performance, reflecting his deep understanding of cycling mechanics. Later in life, he transitioned into coaching, mentoring emerging talents in the cycling community. Sérès’ legacy is further carried on by his sons, Georges and Arthur, who became accomplished cyclists in their own right. His impact on French cycling remains enduring, and he is celebrated for his athletic excellence and contributions to the sport’s development.

 

In this photo, the true grit and determination are seen in the eyes of Sérès as he stands proudly with a bouquet, his heavy leather stayer’s helmet still perched atop his head, wearing a jersey with shell buttons that run from shoulder to neck.

Additional information

Weight 3 lbs

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