About the Artist
Leonetto Cappiello was an Italian-born artist who revolutionized the world of advertising posters after relocating to Paris. Renowned for his ability to distill a brand’s essence into a single, unforgettable image, Cappiello’s work marked a turning point in early twentieth-century commercial art. His innovative approach helped shape the visual language of modern advertising, making his posters enduring favorites among collectors and design enthusiasts. Discover more in our Leonetto Cappiello posters collection.
His legacy is evident in the continued popularity of his bold, witty compositions, which remain icons of graphic design history and are frequently featured in curated classic art collections.
The Artwork
This Mossant poster was created in 1938, during a period when hats were both a fashion statement and a symbol of social standing. Cappiello’s design was commissioned to promote the Mossant brand, a leading French hat maker, at a time when competition for attention in urban spaces was fierce. The poster’s concept—multiple hands raising hats in unison—captures the spirit of camaraderie and everyday elegance, making Mossant synonymous with both style and accessibility.
Reflecting the optimism and energy of the interwar years, the artwork embodies how advertising posters became cultural touchstones, conveying aspirational messages to a broad public. For more on this genre, explore our vintage advertising poster selection.
Style & Characteristics
The visual composition features three hands, each holding a hat aloft, set against a high-contrast background. Cappiello employs crisp outlines, bold shapes, and clear, sans-serif typography to ensure immediate impact. The color palette is striking, with deep black, vibrant yellow, rich red, and pale neutrals creating a theatrical effect that draws the eye.
This dynamic arrangement and dramatic use of color lend the poster a lively, cosmopolitan mood. The design’s clarity and playfulness are hallmarks of Cappiello’s style, making this vintage print a quintessential example of early modern advertising art.
In Interior Design
This vintage poster makes a sophisticated statement in entryways, dressing rooms, offices, or living spaces, where its hat motif nods to themes of fashion and urban culture. Its bold graphics pair well with black frames, warm woods, or metallic accents for a tailored look.
For a cohesive gallery wall, combine it with other graphic or Art Deco-inspired pieces from our vertical posters or add a pop of color with selections from our yellow tone wall art collection.
