International Festival of the Guard, Brussels

This vibrant Art Deco poster announces the International Festival of Guards, a spectacular military music celebration held during the 1935 Brussels World's Fair. Five ceremonial guards from different nations march in formation, their colorful uniforms rendered in geometric forms characteristic of the era. A Scottish piper, Belgian grenadier, and other international military musicians create a dynamic procession against a backdrop of national flags. The festival took place over three days in early June at the Hall du Cinquantenaire, featuring a parade through Brussels and evening ensemble performances. The poster captures the optimistic spirit of international cooperation that world's fairs embodied, even as Europe's political landscape grew increasingly troubled. The typography balances bold display lettering with practical event information, creating an effective promotional piece that also stands as a work of graphic art. A striking example of Belgian commercial art from the interwar period, this poster offers collectors a rare glimpse into the ceremonial pageantry that accompanied one of the last great European expositions before World War II. Size: 39.25" x 25.0" Condition: Very Good, Age-appropriate wear, fading and toning. Conservation mounted on linen. Original folds have been restored. Repaired tear in center graphic. Faint background scuffs. Please use the photo zoom feature to get a better understanding of overall condition. *Additional photos available upon request.