Plate: SPPL. 15

The full title reads, "Mimi Pinson, who has become a great lady, will never take her coachman as a lover"

An original design by Leandre, who's title reads like the first line of a romance novel, as we look at this beautiful delicate lady, Mimi Pinson, that Leandre draws with such affection. This is in stark contrast to his wicked wit (see PL.206), which created scathing, almost ugly, caricatures such as those seen in his contributions to the popular "Le Rire". The chubby coachman stands elegantly behind our lady, a hint of forest and birds flying create a romantic backdrop. It is said that Mimi Pinson was the literary archetype of the easygoing milliner's assistant.

Subscribers to the Maitre de l'Affiche series received four special plates annually. These premium original lithographs, each an original design, were created specifically for this series, and are not seen in any other format, unlike the regular plates, which are reduced versions of larger posters.

We are most fortunate to have had the inclusion of the Special Plates (Sp), as each one is a true example of the artist's creativity and skill. The artist is unencumbered with a product or service to advertise, and can express himself more freely, demonstrating his drawing ability, the essence of graphic art, with only one or two colours. For many collectors these unique Special Plates are more desirable than any of the regular plates.