Absinthe Robette

There are certain poster images that transcend the medium in their beauty and importance; this is one such piece. Absinthe Robette by Henri Privat-Livemont is acknowledged as one of the truly exceptional examples of Art Nouveau, an art movement popular during the Belle Epoque period of which there are very few true examples of in poster form. A classical red-haired beauty, likely meant to represent a muse, holds up the perfectly poured glass of Absinthe Robette for offering and admiration. Her copper-tinged tendrils curl like waves, mimicking the decorative floral swirling patterns that create the background of the image. Her face is framed by a circle meant to symbolize the moon, and her bare body is only slightly concealed by her sheer chemise. The absinthe itself is a thing of beauty, properly prepared with a special perforated spoon resting atop the glass, with a sugar cube on top. Water pours down onto the sugar cube from the heavens and off the page, mixing with the Absinthe Robe