Cycles Gladiator Poster

Cycles Gladiator symbolizes a celebration of the freedom and happiness that pervaded Europe in the late 19th century – during an era known as the ‘Belle Epoque’. This era marked many notable inventions and improvements to daily life, not the least of which, the modern bicycle or "Le Bicycle Velocipede".

Started in Paris in 1891 by Alexandre Darracq (an eccentric, who would later become famous for manufacturing automobiles), Gladiator was one of the dozens of bicycle companies that made their way into the market when the cycling craze boomed. The Golden age of cycling reached its pinnacle in 1895 – and that same year printer G. Massias unveiled one of the great Parisian art posters showcasing the stylish 'Gladiator' bicycle. Only four of these original posters are said to be in existence today.