Ride a Stearn and Be Content
1896
Edward Penfield, often called the father of the American poster, perfectly captured the 1890s bicycle craze with this stylish advertisement. He depicts a confident 'New Woman'—sporting chic red hair and a boater hat—cruising along on a Stearns bike, promising that riding one brings pure contentment. The bold, flat colors and simplified shapes are classic Art Nouveau, designed to grab attention on busy city streets. Interestingly, her long, patterned skirt was actually quite dangerous for cycling, hinting at the fashion revolution toward bloomers that was just around the corner!
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- Color lithograph
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