This playful poster titled 'L’école des loisirs' promotes the French children’s publishing house L'École des loisirs, renowned for producing imaginative illustrated books for young readers. The artwork is by the Hungarian-born French illustrator Tomi Ungerer, whose signature appears in the lower left corner as 'T. Ungerer.' Created in the 1960s–1970s, the image reflects Ungerer’s distinctive style – whimsical, slightly mischievous, and full of visual humour.

The illustration shows a large-headed cat reading a book made of cheese while holding a mouse, with another mouse peeking from one of its hollow eye sockets. The surreal and humorous scene captures Ungerer’s playful approach to storytelling and his ability to appeal to children while maintaining a clever, slightly subversive tone appreciated by adults as well. Posters like this were produced to promote children’s literature and reading culture in France, often displayed in bookshops, libraries and schools.

Year: 1960s

Dimensions: 62cm x 40cm 

Materials/Media: Original lithograph, linen backed