
Victor bicycles, Overman Wheel Co.
A hand-painted replica of Will Bradley’s masterpiece Victor bicycles, Overman Wheel Co., meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.
"Victor Bicycles, Overman Wheel Co." is a notable lithographic poster created by the American artist and designer Will Bradley in the late 19th century. Will Bradley (1868–1962) was a prominent figure in the American Art Nouveau movement and is often referred to as the "Dean of American Designers." His work was heavily influenced by the Arts and Crafts movement, as well as the European Art Nouveau style, particularly the works of artists like Aubrey Beardsley.
The poster was commissioned by the Overman Wheel Company, a Massachusetts-based manufacturer of Victor Bicycles. Founded in 1882, the Overman Wheel Company was one of the first American companies to produce bicycles with all-steel parts, marking a significant innovation in the industry. Victor Bicycles were known for their high quality and advanced engineering, and the company played a key role in popularizing cycling in the United States during the late 19th century.
Bradley's poster for Victor Bicycles exemplifies the Art Nouveau style, characterized by its flowing lines, organic forms, and decorative elements. The design features a striking composition with a female figure, often interpreted as an allegorical representation of freedom or modernity, standing beside a Victor Bicycle. The use of bold, flat colors and stylized forms reflects Bradley's mastery of graphic design and his ability to create visually compelling advertisements.
This poster is also significant as an example of the growing intersection between art and commerce during the late 19th century. As bicycles became a symbol of personal freedom and modern technology, companies like Overman Wheel Co. sought to associate their products with the cultural and aesthetic values of the time. Bradley's work helped elevate commercial advertising to an art form, blending functionality with artistic expression.
Today, "Victor Bicycles, Overman Wheel Co." is regarded as an important piece of graphic design history and is often studied in the context of both Art Nouveau and the evolution of advertising. Original prints of the poster are highly sought after by collectors and are preserved in museum collections, including institutions dedicated to design and decorative arts.