Milano Poster

About the Artist

Allessandro Pomi was an Italian poster designer active during the early twentieth century, a period when lithographic advertising transformed urban landscapes and visual culture. Artists like Pomi helped shape the identity of cities through bold, memorable images that were both accessible and sophisticated. His work contributed to the rise of Italian graphic design, which balanced clarity with artistic flair. This Milano poster stands among the era’s most distinctive vintage advertising works, reflecting the spirit of modernity that swept through Europe after World War I.

Pomi’s approach emphasized structure and visual impact over intricate detail, aligning with the broader trends of his time. His posters not only served commercial purposes but also became lasting symbols of place and culture.

The Artwork

Created in 1920, this Milano poster captures the city’s essence by featuring its iconic Duomo. At a time when European cities were eager to attract visitors and assert their identities, such posters played a vital role in shaping perceptions. The artwork was likely intended for public spaces, fairs, or travel promotion, inviting viewers to experience the grandeur and allure of Milan. Its focus on the cathedral speaks to civic pride and the enduring power of architectural landmarks to define a city’s image.

Rather than simply depicting a location, the poster transforms Milan into a symbol of aspiration and movement, resonating with the renewed optimism of the postwar era. For more city-themed pieces, see our landscape prints.

Style & Characteristics

The composition is dominated by the Duomo’s striking silhouette, rendered in crisp lines and geometric forms that rise dramatically against the sky. Broad fields of blue and white evoke an airy, uplifting atmosphere, while the subtle beige of the paper and a vibrant orange accent add warmth and visual interest. The use of negative space ensures clarity and focus, making the design easily legible from a distance—a hallmark of classic lithographic posters.

The overall effect is both metropolitan and serene, with a restrained palette that feels timeless. The poster’s cool blue tones and architectural emphasis make it a standout example of early twentieth-century Italian graphic art. For more in this style, explore our blue tone prints.

In Interior Design

This vintage Milano poster brings architectural elegance and a sense of place to any interior, whether displayed in an entryway, office, or living room. Its clean lines and balanced composition suit modern, minimalist, and mid-century spaces, while its historical subject matter also complements more traditional settings. The artwork pairs beautifully with neutral colors, pale woods, and touches of orange or brushed steel in decor.

It works especially well in gallery walls featuring European city scenes or as a focal point above a desk or console. For tall arrangements, consider combining it with other vertical posters to create a harmonious visual rhythm.