Advertentie van sigarenmagazijn Het Leienhuis 1874 - 1935

This is Advertentie van sigarenmagazijn Het Leienhuis, a print made by Mathieu Lauweriks. Look at how Lauweriks orchestrates the black and white, pushing the contrast for maximum impact. It’s such a graphic and bold use of the medium. The lettering itself is a marvel, each letter feels hand-carved, like a little sculpture. Notice the ornate patterns that frame the text and the smoking man – they're almost psychedelic, swirling and hypnotic, drawing you into the world of the image. It’s a world where the mundane, like advertising, is elevated into art through meticulous craftsmanship. The texture is palpable; you can almost feel the cuts of the block. Lauweriks reminds me a bit of Aubrey Beardsley, another artist who wasn't afraid to embrace the dark side with elegance and precision. Art, like a good cigar, invites contemplation and offers endless layers of interpretation.