Leopoldo Metlicovitz - Mele Napoli - Massimo Buon Mercato - 1970s

This splendid poster conceived by Maestro Leopoldo Metlicovitz for the famous Mele Department Stores of Naples, founded by the brothers Emiddio and Alfonso Mele. The Mele department stores redefined the history of dress and Italian fashion during the Belle Époque, inseparably tying their name to the greatest illustrators of the twentieth century. The work captivates the viewer with a powerful and allegorical iconography, typical of Metlicovitz's genius: a sculptural man is depicted while playing a large bell ("Klamor"), partly wrapped in the historic flag of the Kingdom of Italy with the Savoy shield at the center and a sumptuous garland of roses. In the background, there is a delicate nod to the Gulf of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. At the bottom stands the company's iconic commercial slogan: "Massimo Buon Mercato". The historic logo of the famous Officine Grafiche Ricordi of Milan is visible on the left side of the panel.