Menu for the Leidsche Spaarbank - Theo van Hoytema

A delightful lithograph by Theo van Hoytema, this menu for the Leidsche Spaarbank from 1889 combines commercial design with Art Nouveau elegance, perfect for adding a touch of historical charm to your home.

This charming lithograph by Dutch artist Theo van Hoytema served as a menu for the Leidsche Spaarbank (Leiden Savings Bank) on 23 May 1889. Hoytema, known for his Art Nouveau designs and lithographic skill, blends commercial function with artistic flair. The menu is presented as a visual narrative, with the bank's patrons depicted queuing inside the building, while a bountiful cornucopia and blossoming tree frame the scene. The detailed menu, written in French, lists an array of dishes, from 'Potage Londonderry' to 'Homards frais'. The composition is divided into two distinct registers: the upper section showing the bank's interior and clientele, and the lower section featuring the bank's facade and the menu itself. Hoytema's delicate linework and muted colour palette create a sense of refined elegance. The text at the bottom, 'Niet te openen voordat dat geschied is' ('Not to be opened before that has happened'), adds a touch of playful mystery. As a fine art print, this work brings a touch of historical charm and sophistication to any space. Its unique subject matter and delicate execution make it a conversation piece, perfect for adding character to a dining room, study, or hallway. The muted tones and intricate details blend seamlessly with both modern and traditional interiors.