1923 Over 200 Miles Per Hour - International Air Races, St. Louis
By: Carl Walter
Date: 1923 (published) St. Louis, MO
Dimensions: 21 x 14 inches (53.5 x 35.5 cm)
This antique poster published in 1923 for the Aeronautical Exhibition in St. Louis promotes the International Air Races that occurred as part of the exhibition. With bold illustration, rendered in a dynamic woodcut-style, the work captures the thrilling spectacle of early aviation competitions.
The poster features biplanes racing at breathtaking speeds, with one aircraft banking sharply around a towering pylon, a signature maneuver in air racing. The text boasts speeds of over 200 miles per hour, emphasizing the cutting-edge nature of the event, a remarkable feat for aircraft of the time. A grandstand filled with spectators and a foreground scene of excited onlookers, including a woman pointing toward the sky, add to the sense of excitement and anticipation.
The event was part of the golden age of air racing, which gained popularity in the early 20th century as pilots and aircraft manufacturers pushed the limits of speed, agility, and endurance. St. Louis, a city with a deep aviation heritage—immortalized by Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis—served as an ideal location for such competitions. The mention of an Aeronautical Exhibition, Aero Congress, Air Institute, and Veiled Prophet suggests that the races were part of a larger aviation and civic celebration, possibly tied to the long-running Veiled Prophet Fair, a well-known St. Louis cultural event.
The artist, Carl Walter, used bold colors, stylized lettering, and a striking composition to capture the exhilaration of air racing. This poster exemplifies the energetic promotional style of the 1920s and 1930s, designed to entice crowds to witness the daring feats of pilots at the forefront of aviation technology.
Condition: Poster is in B condition, professionally linen backed with restoration performed along the top left margin where prior adhesive resulted in some staining and image loss. The poster presents well with bright, bold color and impressive overall eye-appeal.
Inventory #92235