Cocorico (1899)

"Cocorico," a striking poster created by Swiss-born French artist Théophile Alexandre Steinlen in 1899, stands out as a bold expression of art and communication from the heart of the Belle Époque period in Paris. This artwork was designed as a cover for a magazine also titled "Cocorico," which means "cock-a-doodle-doo" in French—a fitting title reflecting the rooster's prominent role in French culture as a national symbol of pride and awakening.In the painting, Steinlen masterfully captures the vibrant energy and commanding presence of a rooster. Its black body sharply contrasts with the fiery red and orange hues of its comb and wattle, drawing the viewer's eye directly to its animated posture and intense gaze. The background of soft beige serves to amplify the rooster's vivid colors, making the image pop with life and urgency.The text surrounding the rooster features names of various artists and writers contributing to the magazine, including notable figures like Mucha and Willette, which highlights the publication's connection to the vibrant cultural and artistic scene of the time. Situated at the bottom of the poster is the name "Paul Boutigny," the magazine's director, along with the address and price information, anchoring the artwork firmly in its historical and commercial context.Théophile Alexandre Steinlen's "Cocorico" is more than just a magazine cover; it is a celebration of French spirit, artistic collaboration, and the enduring power of visual communication.