Achille Mauzan Original 1930 Bertozzi Parmigiano Reggiano Lithograph Poster

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Description

Original Italian lithographic advertising poster for Parmigiano-Reggiano Bertozzi, Parma, designed by celebrated French-Italian poster artist Achille Luciano Mauzan (1883–1952) and … Read more Original Italian lithographic advertising poster for Parmigiano-Reggiano Bertozzi, Parma, designed by celebrated French-Italian poster artist Achille Luciano Mauzan (1883–1952) and printed in Italy in 1930.

One of Mauzan's most recognizable and humorous advertising compositions, the poster depicts three dramatically caricatured judges leaning toward a wheel of Bertozzi Parmigiano-Reggiano, seemingly evaluating the cheese by its aroma. Their exaggerated expressions, elongated noses and intense gazes are characteristic of Mauzan's distinctive graphic style, combining humor, theatricality and bold Art Deco-era commercial design.

The composition was originally created by Mauzan for the Bertozzi company in 1924. Its popularity led to several subsequent printings. This example is identified within the lower margin as the fourth edition of 1930, with the printed inscription:

“STAMPATO IN ITALIA 4ª EDIZIONE 1930”

The poster additionally bears Mauzan's signature within the image and the printer's mark for Mauzan Morzenti, Cernusco Lombardone. Along the lower margin appears the Italian posting authorization dated 15 April 1930, together with “RIPRODUZIONE VIETATA A SENSI DI LEGGE” (reproduction prohibited by law).

The Parmigiano Reggiano Museum in Soragna, Italy, documents this composition and identifies the 1930 fourth edition as a lithograph on paper printed by the Mauzan Morzenti graphic studio. Specialist vintage-poster references likewise document the fourth edition as a 1930 lithographic printing.

Mauzan's extraordinary composition transforms a commercial advertisement into an immediately recognizable work of Italian graphic design. The saturated teal, burgundy, yellow and black palette gives the poster tremendous visual presence, while the three almost surreal faces make it particularly memorable.

Presented under glass in a handsome period-style giltwood frame with architectural and foliate detailing. The warm gold finish provides an elegant contrast to the poster's exceptionally strong colors.

Artist: Achille Luciano Mauzan (1883–1952)
Title/Subject: Parmigiano-Reggiano Bertozzi, Parma
Original Design: 1924
Edition: Fourth Edition
Printing Date: 1930
Medium: Original color lithographic advertising poster on paper
Printer: Mauzan Morzenti, Cernusco Lombardone, Italy
Country of Origin: Italy
Period: Art Deco / Early 20th Century
Signed: Signed in the plate “Mauzan”
Framing: Framed under glass in a giltwood frame

Overall framed dimensions:
59.50 in. H × 43.50 in. W × 1.875 in. D

The poster itself corresponds closely to the approximately 55 × 39-inch format documented for original examples of this 1930 edition.

Condition: Presented in very good vintage condition consistent with age. Minor surface irregularities, toning and signs of age may be present. The giltwood frame shows attractive age-related wear, including minor losses, rubbing, surface marks and craquelure, contributing to its period character. Please refer to the detailed photographs for condition.

Authentication note: The poster has not been professionally authenticated or accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. Attribution, date and edition are based upon the inscriptions printed on the work and comparison with documented examples. See less