Automobiles Unic
Lithography on paper
Henry Le Monnier was born in Paris and studied drawing and painting at the École Pilon and the School for Decorative Art in Paris. As a poster artist, he worked for various printing houses; Lutecia (1923-1932), Joseph Charles (1934–1943) and Gaillard (1934–1954). In addition, he pursued a career in illustrating.
One of the great masters of lithography, his images promoted products from Perrier water to Automobiles Unic and La savon Soprosoie. His numerous Art Deco images encompass a great sense of humor and an astute eye for detail.
The centaur is the mascot of Unic automobiles, founded in 1905 by Georges Richard in Puteaux, France. In Greek Mythology a centaur is half human and half horse and known to be wild and untamed. The imagery of the centaur echoes the sleek and sexy nature of Unic automobiles that flew like arrows down the road.
Printing House Lutetia, 53 Rue Rochechouart, Paris
Creation Juillet 1925