At Curio & Find, we’re all about the thrill of the hunt—the kind that turns a casual browse into a heart-pounding “Eureka!” moment, where a forgotten gem whispers tales from decades past. Picture this: We’re wandering through Jasper Ga. Antiques & Things in Jasper, Georgia—a treasure trove of vintage wonders that’s even been visited by Mike Wolfe from the TV show American Pickers. My wife spots it first, her eyes lighting up as she points me toward a framed poster leaning casually against the wall on the ground. Knowing my background as a graphic designer, she knew I’d flip for its bold, clever design. It’s not just any artwork; it’s an original 1957 lithograph by the legendary French poster artist Hervé Morvan, advertising the 9th Official Exposition of Namur. And the best part? We haggled it down from $250 to a steal at $225. Talk about a feather in our cap! This find isn’t just a pretty picture; it’s a portal to mid-century Europe, ready to infuse any space with character, color, and a dash of joie de vivre. Let’s dive into the adventure of discovering it and why pieces like this are perfect for reviving your own stories.
The chase began like many of our best escapades: with no agenda but an open mind. Tucked away in a corner at Jasper Ga. Antiques & Things (check them out at www.jaspergaantiquesandthings.com for your next picking adventure), this poster was framed simply, its edges showing the gentle wear of 68 years. At first glance, the striking design—a stylized Gallic rooster with a scroll-like comb, morphing seamlessly into the “9e” for the ninth edition—screamed vintage cool. But a quick peek at the signature “HERVÉ” and the printer’s mark (“IMP. PAR ETS JEAN DE VOS S.A. FOREST-BRUX.”) confirmed it was the real deal, not some modern knockoff. The exempt de timbre note? That’s a quirky Belgian tax exemption stamp from the era, adding to its authenticity. I couldn’t resist snapping photos and diving into research right there in the shop—turns out, this beauty was created to promote Namur’s annual fair from June 15 to 30, 1957, a lively event showcasing local agriculture, industry, and culture in Belgium’s Walloon region. Think county fair meets trade show, with everything from livestock parades to artisan displays, all under the watchful eye of Namur’s historic citadel.
Hervé Morvan himself is a star worth celebrating. Born in 1917, this prolific artist churned out over 500 posters in his lifetime, blending whimsy with bold graphics that defined post-WWII advertising. He’s the genius behind iconic campaigns for Perrier, Gitanes cigarettes, and Bally shoes, often using vibrant colors and playful motifs to capture attention. For the Namur series, Morvan drew on the Gallic rooster—a symbol of French (and by extension, Walloon) pride, vigilance, and a touch of cocky flair. The red comb, white body fading to blue feathers? Pure tricolor patriotism, cleverly integrating the event’s edition number into the bird’s form. It’s graphic design at its finest: simple, memorable, and timeless. Morvan’s work for Namur spanned years, with similar rooster designs popping up in later editions, like the 1963 version that echoes this one’s spirit.
What makes this poster such a Curio & Find favorite? It’s the perfect example of how vintage ephemera can transform a space. I’m keeping this one for my own office, where its bold energy will spark creativity during design sessions—proving that our curation isn’t just for homes or hotels, but also for executive offices seeking that unique, story-rich touch. Imagine it hanging in your workspace, adding a pop of mid-century modern vibe to inspire innovation, or in a cozy reading nook, evoking the buzz of a bygone fair. Its large size (around 24×36 inches) commands attention without overwhelming, and the colors hold up beautifully, thanks to the quality lithography. Collectors prize Morvan’s pieces—similar ones fetch $500 to $1,500 at auction—so snagging this for $225 felt like winning the vintage lottery. But beyond the value, it’s about the story: a piece born in Belgium, traveling across oceans and decades, now ready to crow its history in someone’s space.
From generation to generation, families revive their past with heirloom pieces—like this poster could for you.
This adventure reminded me why we do what we do at Curio & Find: unearthing treasures that bridge eras, turning “what’s this?” into “I can’t live without it.” Whether it’s a family heirloom gathering dust in your attic, a fresh find like this poster, or something to elevate your executive office, we specialize in weaving them into spaces that feel alive and personal. If you’ve got pieces with potential—old posters, furniture, or forgotten artifacts—let’s turn them into stars of your story. Contact us today to chat about curation; who knows what legacy we’ll revive next?
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