Hubert Hilscher

A Polish cyrk (circus) poster featuring a wonderfully psychedelic large stripy cat design by Hubert Hilscher.

• Hubert Hilscher (Polish, 1924-1999).
• Linen backed.
• This work is presented unframed.

The ‘Cyrk” circus poster in Poland appeared for the first time in 1962 when the ZPR (Zjednoczone Przedsiębiorstwa Rozrywkowe, or United Entertainment Enterprises), the state agency that oversaw the circus, commissioned leading artists from the Polish School of Posters to develop a modern approach to the circus poster.

The ZPR wanted a new look for the circus poster to complement the circus’ efforts to upgrade its image. Not intended to advertise specific performances, they, rather, celebrated the essence of the circus through rich artistic expression with designs typically featuring clever metaphors, bold colors and humor. Heavy in symbolism, provocative and highly original the designs remain contemporary to this day and continue to gain appreciation.