About the Artist
Leo Gestel was a pioneering Dutch modernist whose work bridged Post-Impressionism, Cubism, and Expressionism. Active in the early twentieth century, Gestel contributed significantly to the evolution of modern Dutch art, embracing new visual languages that emphasized rhythm, immediacy, and bold simplification. His versatility as both painter and graphic artist allowed him to explore a wide range of styles and subjects, helping to define the era's avant-garde spirit.
For more works by influential creators, discover our famous artists prints collection.
The Artwork
Created in 1921, this depiction of the Eiffel Tower captures the interwar fascination with Paris as a center of culture and artistic innovation. At the time, the Eiffel Tower had recently transitioned from a controversial engineering marvel to a cherished symbol of the city, frequently appearing in travel imagery and modernist art. Gestel’s interpretation reflects the excitement and dynamism of early twentieth-century urban life, inviting viewers to experience the monument as a contemporary icon rather than a distant landmark.
This piece embodies the spirit of modern European travel posters, where iconic architecture served as a shorthand for cosmopolitan identity and progress. To explore more striking monochrome pieces, visit our black and white wall art collection.
Style & Characteristics
The artwork is executed in a bold black and white palette, with expressive, energetic linework that gives the Eiffel Tower a vivid, almost kinetic presence. Gestel’s sketchlike technique emphasizes the tower’s structural rhythm, while the surrounding cityscape is rendered with minimal, suggestive marks that keep the focus on the monument itself. The high contrast and simplified forms create a graphic clarity, lending the image a brisk, modern atmosphere.
The composition’s verticality and dynamic lines evoke a sense of immediacy, making it a compelling example of early modernist graphic art. This style resonates with those who appreciate vintage prints that balance abstraction and recognizable form. For more vertically oriented pieces, explore our vertical posters selection.
In Interior Design
This modernist Eiffel Tower poster complements minimalist, Scandinavian, and contemporary interiors, where clean lines and curated objects take center stage. Its monochrome scheme pairs effortlessly with white walls, black frames, and natural materials like oak or concrete, making it a versatile choice for hallways, bedrooms, or home offices.
Consider combining it with architectural studies, photography, or other graphic classics for a cohesive gallery wall. Its tall format is especially well-suited to narrow spaces, adding a touch of Parisian sophistication to any setting.
