F. Capelli Cycles Omnium – Turn of the Century Bicycle Poster, 1896

Description

Cycles Omnium – F. Capelli, 1896

This is an authentic turn of the century bicycle poster that celebrates one of the era’s most joyful inventions: the bicycle as a family experience. Created in 1896 by artist F. Capelli for the Paris printer N. Weill, this vintage poster for sale captures a man, woman, and child riding together through the French countryside—their clothing and hats catching the wind, their scarves streaming, the motion palpable in every line.

The Image & Symbolism

The composition is masterful. Capelli positions the figures against a luminous cream-and-gold sky with rolling green fields, creating a sense of open possibility and freedom. You can feel the speed: the woman’s scarf flows dramatically, the wheels spin with suggested motion, and even the child—perched confidently on a small bicycle—participates in the adventure. This is no solitary pursuit; this is a family bicycle poster that speaks to cycling as a shared, multigenerational pleasure.

The “Omnium” name refers to the endurance races that captured the public imagination in the 1890s—grueling tests of strength and speed that made cycling the era’s most thrilling sport. By naming their brand after this prestigious event, Cycles Omnium positioned themselves as reliable machines built for adventure and distance.

Turn of the Century Moment

By the 1890s, bicycles had become affordable, accessible, and culturally transformative. They offered freedom—especially for women, who found in cycling a rare opportunity for independence and outdoor mobility. This poster recognizes that revolution: families rode together, children learned independence on two wheels, and the bicycle became the vehicle of modern leisure. The artistic style—flowing lines, decorative elegance, emphasis on the human figure—captures the aesthetic of the period perfectly.

Historical & Artistic Significance

The design showcases the hallmarks of turn-of-the-century poster art: ornate typography, decorative motifs, and a composition that balances naturalism with stylized beauty. Capelli’s work represents the moment when advertising became high art, when mass production and fine design merged to create pieces that collectors treasure today.

Condition & Authenticity

This is an original, authentic poster and an authenticated original lithograph, professionally linen-backed for archival preservation and longevity. The poster was originally folded in half; the fold mark has been expertly restored during the linen-backing process. There is minor restoration work on the right-hand sky area (upper section) and a subtle touch-up on the border (upper right corner). Overall, the piece is in excellent condition with vibrant colors and exceptional clarity. It arrives ready to frame and display.

For Collectors

Whether you’re drawn to cycling history, vintage family imagery, French design, or the golden age of poster art, this piece offers multiple entry points. It’s an antique poster with genuine historical resonance—a window into how bicycles changed society and how artists celebrated that change.

Each poster includes a Certificate of Authenticity (IVPDA certified). We package carefully to ensure safe arrival.

Inventory #: 13810
Size: 27″ × 39″
Medium: Stone Lithograph, Linen-backed
Date: 1896