Harper's July (1898)

This page presents "Harper's July" (1898), created by Edward Penfield. Context for 1898: In the 1890s, colour lithography and Art Nouveau made the illustrated poster a celebrated art form. The later nineteenth century is the era of Impressionism, whose first group exhibition was held in Paris in 1874, followed by Post-Impressionism, Symbolism, and the Arts and Crafts movement. It is listed in the Vintage Posters collection. The image is in landscape orientation. Background on Vintage Posters: Posters announced theatre, travel, products, and events, combining image and lettering to be read at a glance from the street. Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and later modernist design each left a recognisable poster style.

On onlly.art "Harper's July" is sold as a digital download (Digital JPEG + PDF files, 300 DPI). The files are delivered by email after payment, so nothing is shipped: you print locally, choosing the paper, size, and frame yourself. A landscape format suits wide, low wall spaces such as the stretch above a bed, mantel, or sideboard. Vintage posters bring character, graphic texture, and a collected feel to the room, while pairing easily with both contemporary furniture and eclectic styling. Before printing, compare the proportions of the file with your frame so that nothing important is cropped. Screens and printers render colour differently, so a small test print is a sensible way to check tones before committing to a large size. Matte and fine-art papers reduce glare in bright rooms, while glossy papers give stronger contrast and deeper blacks. Hang the print away from direct sunlight, which over the years can fade any printed colour.

American, 1866–1925

If you like the visual language of Edward Penfield, explore more works by the same artist in our collection.