About the Artist
E. Tériade, born Stratis Eleftheriades, was a Greek-French editor, critic, and publisher who played a pivotal role in shaping the modern art landscape of early twentieth-century Europe. Renowned for his collaborations with leading artists and writers, Tériade was instrumental in bringing avant-garde ideas to a broader audience through exquisitely produced periodicals and books. His discerning taste and commitment to quality made his projects highly influential among collectors and creatives alike.
For those interested in the evolution of European modernism, this piece resonates with works found in our famous artists collection.
The Artwork
Created in the vibrant milieu of 1930s Paris, this poster was designed as a cover for the influential magazine Minotaure. The publication served as a meeting ground for Surrealist thinkers, artists, and writers, exploring intersections between mythology, psychology, and contemporary art. The Minotaur, a mythic figure associated with labyrinths and hidden depths, became a powerful symbol for the Surrealist movement’s fascination with the unconscious and the mysterious. This artwork thus reflects a moment when visual culture was being redefined by radical new ideas and collaborative experimentation.
Its historical context places it firmly within the tradition of collectible advertising posters that shaped the visual identity of modern France.
Style & Characteristics
The poster is visually striking, dominated by a bold spiral motif that suggests both a labyrinth and a hypnotic vortex. The limited palette of vivid red, deep black, and crisp white creates a high-contrast effect, ensuring immediate visual impact. Clean, geometric forms and sharp lines give the composition a sense of order and clarity, while the spiral introduces a dynamic, almost unsettling energy. The overall mood is modern and cerebral, blending elements of geometric abstraction with Surrealist intrigue.
This graphic approach aligns the work with the aesthetics of minimalist design and modernist poster art.
In Interior Design
This vintage poster serves as a compelling focal point in contemporary interiors, particularly in living rooms, offices, or entryways seeking a touch of graphic sophistication. Its strong contrasts pair well with neutral backgrounds and can be complemented by accents in red or black. The artwork also integrates seamlessly into gallery walls featuring modernist or abstract pieces, and its iconic spiral motif brings a sense of movement and intellectual curiosity to any space.
It is especially effective in settings inspired by black and white design, where it introduces a bold yet controlled pop of color.
