12 - Henri Polart (19th–20th centuries) - Bat Film. 1910. 60x38 cm. Original poster, lithographic print. Mounted on canvas. Condition B—unrestored horizontal creases.

Henri Polart (19th–20th centuries) - Bat Film. 1910. 60x38 cm. Original poster, lithographic print. Mounted on canvas. Condition B—unrestored horizontal creases. This extremely rare poster bears witness to the early days of cinema in France and its connection to the United States. To the best of our knowledge, this is the only known copy promoting this company, founded in 1910 by Albert Chevret in Lyon, whose purpose was to produce films and sell cinematographic equipment. It was likely an authorized distributor of U.S. brands. Although the founder was French, his company is described as an American film company. While its logo—the bat—was a motif used in the Art Nouveau aesthetic, it is worth noting the remarkable modernity of Polart’s visual design. Finally, it is worth noting that its founding in the capital of the Rhône department was likely no coincidence, since, as we know, it is the city of the Lumière brothers. Posters from film producers and equipment dealers are rare. We are generally familiar with those for Pathé, Gaumont, or Lumière.