1950s Rossignol New York School Poster – Woolworth Building – Double-Sided

A vintage double-sided French geography chart from the Rossignol collection, published by La Coopération Pédagogique in Montmorillon. The illustrated side, “Un quartier de gratte-ciel” — “A district of skyscrapers” — shows New York’s Woolworth Building rising above City Hall Park, with busy waterfront piers beyond.
The reverse is titled “Un campement de pasteurs nomades” — “A camp of nomadic herders”. Presented in a wooden frame, it combines detailed architectural illustration with the character of an old classroom teaching aid.
Rossignol charts helped teachers explain geography, history and everyday life through large illustrations that the whole class could study. André Rossignol was himself a teacher, and his educational publishing work produced hundreds of these classroom images.
The Woolworth Building was designed by Cass Gilbert and completed in 1913. Its Gothic detailing makes it particularly recognisable.
The publishing business was founded in 1946 by teachers André and Madeleine Rossignol. Their educational pictures became familiar to generations of French schoolchildren.
Frame is NOT included.
Dimensions: 30 in x 22 in (76 cm x 56 cm)
Condition: light age toning and marks, some minor creasing, handwritten school notation in the upper margin, and some rough edges. See photos for detail.

Georges Bourdin (1885–1971) was a French illustrator whose work included books and educational images. The Bibliothèque nationale de France records his illustrations for numerous books published during the 1930s and 1940s, while France’s heritage inventory identifies him among the artists responsible for Rossignol geography charts. Here, the carefully drawn buildings, tiny vehicles and waterfront activity give pupils plenty of details to explore. Use Georges Bourdin in the listing; some sellers incorrectly attribute these charts to fashion photographer Guy Bourdin.

Because of the age of these posters, and their use in the classroom, there are areas of wear and tear, particularly on the edges. I have done my best to take photos where they are torn or stained. The good news is that when framed, the tears press up well against glass, and edges can be hidden by mats. Any wear picked up from years in the classroom are part of the vintage charm.

When framed these colourful and detailed posters, with vibrant colours can become a centre piece for any room, to remind us of a simpler time.

These posters are sent as unframed - the wooden frame is not included. They will be rolled up and delivered in a cardboard tube for protection.

See the FAQ section for more information on shipping, tracking and insurance.