PKZ | 1934

PKZ, 1934, by Niklaus Stoecklin

This striking poster depicts the back view of a well-dressed gentleman in a formal black coat and bowler hat. The figure is shown from behind, creating an air of mystery and sophistication. In his right hand, partially visible at the edge of the image, he holds a golden walking stick. The gentleman's left hand grasps a newspaper bearing the "PKZ" logo, which is the only text element in the composition. The stark contrast between the deep black of the coat against the pale background creates a bold, graphic quality typical of Swiss poster design from this period.

PKZ (Paul Kehl Zurich) was a prestigious Swiss men's clothing company founded in Zurich. This 1934 poster emerged during a significant period in European design history, when Switzerland was establishing itself as a centre for innovative graphic design. The poster exemplifies the "Swiss Object Poster" style that gained international recognition in the 1930s, characterised by realistic rendering, minimal text, and powerful visual impact. Created during the interwar period, the artwork reflects the refined elegance and business attire that remained important in European fashion despite the economic challenges of the era.

Niklaus Stoecklin (1896-1982) was one of Switzerland's most influential graphic artists and a leading figure in the New Objectivity movement. Born in Basel, he studied at the Basel School of Arts and Crafts under Burkhard Mangold before briefly attending the School of Arts and Crafts in Munich. Stoecklin's PKZ poster of 1934 became an icon of international poster art and cemented his reputation as a master of the "object poster" style. His work is distinguished by meticulous attention to detail, precise rendering techniques and a poetic representational quality. Although his international recognition waned after 1934, a revival of interest in New Objectivity during the 1970s re-established Stoecklin as one of the pioneering figures of 20th century Swiss graphic design.