Leroy | 1938

Leroy, 1938, by Paul Colin

This striking 1938 poster by Paul Colin advertises Leroy, a premier Parisian optician, with a bold and surreal composition. The central figure is a stylized man with a softly shaded, faceless head, except for a pair of sharply defined eyes. He wears smooth, light-reflecting gloves and holds a pair of black, thick-framed glasses up to his face. His attire, including a crisp white bow tie, gives him an air of sophistication. The deep black background heightens the dramatic effect, making the oversized red typography of “LEROY” stand out with its bold shadowing, reinforcing the brand’s prominence.

In the 1930s, eyewear was both a medical necessity and a mark of refinement, particularly in fashionable cities like Paris. Opticians such as Leroy catered to a clientele that valued quality and style, and advertising played a key role in shaping consumer perceptions. Paul Colin’s design aligns with the Art Deco movement, using bold contrasts and stylized imagery to make a simple yet powerful statement. The faceless figure enhances the idea that glasses define and sharpen one’s identity, an effective visual metaphor.

Paul Colin (1892–1985) was one of France’s most influential poster artists, particularly known for his contributions to the Art Deco movement. He first gained fame in the 1920s for his work promoting the Revue Nègre, starring Josephine Baker, and went on to create over 1,900 posters throughout his career. His distinctive style blended strong graphic forms with elegance and fluidity, making his work highly recognizable. Beyond posters, Colin was involved in theatre set and costume design.