Motocycles Comiot

On a large vase used as a umbrella stand is this print of an advertisement for the Comiot motor cycle firm of Paris, drawn in 1899 by Theophile-Alexandre Steinlen.

"A new interest in nature, travelling, hiking and open-air sport had been apparent for some time by the end of the century.
Young progressive people were particularly keen on a
more mobile way of life.
They wanted to escape the narrow confines of the velvet- draped salons, in which their parents generation had felt so much at home.
Moreover in France, a holiday in the country was one of the most popular forms of relaxation.

The French Comiot motorcycle firm, in advertising it's new, three wheeled transport vehicle, built along the lines of the de Bouton tricycle, fitted with every gadget from brakes to gears, directed it's appeal at the younger generation"

This very attractive young lady enjoys a very relaxed ride on a warm and sunny afternoon in rural Feance and you can almost hear the sound of her chuffing cycle and the crickets in the fields.

"The frightened geese fleeing from the newfangled contraption show amusingly what happens when progress intrudes rustic tranquility: something has got to give.
From the set expression on the young rider, it's clear she is determined to have her way.

The artist Steinlen didn't attempt to sell the technical details of this Comiot tricycle; instead he sold an anecdote in graphic terms.