O'Galop: "Le Coup de la Semelle Michelin" (c. 1905) Poster Print

Own a foundational piece of corporate and graphic history with this whimsical O'Galop Le Coup de la Semelle Michelin reproduction. This c. 1905 poster features the legendary Bibendum (The Michelin Man) in an early, iconic depiction of the tire's powerful grip.

Created by the celebrated French caricaturist and illustrator O'Galop (Marius Rossillon), this poster is a visual pun: Le Coup de la Semelle translates to "The Blow of the Michelin Sole (Tread)," vividly illustrating the tire's ability to crush, or "drink up," obstacles—a phrase originally launched by André Michelin. The classic depiction of Bibendum, made entirely of white tires (before carbon black was added to rubber), is rendered with the bold linework and vibrant color lithography typical of the Belle Époque's poster masters. This humorous and highly effective graphic is a landmark in 20th-century advertising art, establishing Bibendum as one of the world's most recognizable corporate mascots.

• Artist: O'Galop (Marius Rossillon, 1867–1946), French graphic artist.

• Artwork: Le Coup de la Semelle Michelin (The Blow of the Michelin Sole), c. 1905.

• Significance: Features the iconic Bibendum (Michelin Man) and symbolizes the birth of modern advertising mascots.

• Artistic Style: Belle Époque / Humorous Commercial Lithography; bold figure-work and simplified backgrounds.

• Print Quality: Museum-quality Archival Giclée Print faithfully recreating the vivid colors and strong outlines of the original poster.

• Aesthetic: Ultimate vintage garage decor, classic French advertising art, and playful man cave art.

Secure this rare and historically significant piece from the dawn of automotive culture. This iconic O'Galop Michelin print offers witty nostalgia and sophisticated graphic charm. Order this Le Coup de la Semelle reproduction today.

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