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Leo Gausson (1860-1944)
Leo Gausson was a student of the engraver Theophile Chauvel and worked in the print shop of Eugene Froment as a young man. In 1883, the print shop closed and Gausson formed a trio with fellow workers and artists Cavallo-Peduzzi and Max Luce. Gausson shared studio space with these artists from that point on in Paris.
Lessive Figaro, poster
Though he lived a relatively long life, Gausson’s career as a painter really only lasted from 1886 to 1900. During this period, Gausson painted in neo-Impressionist and Symbolist styles. Towards the end of the 19th century, Gausson generally worked in lithography and illustration, and focused more on writing poetry. Like fellow artist Toulouse-Lautrec, Gausson generally became known for his posters and vibrant prints.
Gausson also traveled to Africa in 1901 where he stayed until 1908 where he worked in the French colonies as an administrator. After he returned to Paris, Gausson remained working for the government, and retired in Lagny. Due to his short career as an artist, Gausson remains lesser known than his contemporaries. However, he is still considered to be one of the greatest poster artists of 19th century Paris.
