Bitter Campari, Spiritello, 1921

The 1921 Campari ‘Spiritello’ poster, sometimes referred to as the Orange Peel, created by the renowned Italian artist Leonetto Cappiello, is a striking and iconic piece of advertising art that has left an indelible mark on the world of poster design.

This poster, which stands as a timeless testament to Cappiello's genius, captures the essence of the brand in a visually captivating and memorable manner.

At the forefront of the poster is the vivid and arresting image of a stylized orange slice, its vibrant hues dominating the composition. The orange peel is depicted with a stunningly bold and modernist flair, featuring a rich blend of deep reds, oranges, and golden yellows. Cappiello's mastery of color and design shines through in his ability to make the orange peel appear almost three-dimensional, its glossy surface inviting the viewer to reach out and touch it.

In stark contrast to the dominant orange slice, the background is a deep, luscious black, creating a dramatic and captivating visual juxtaposition. The black background serves to emphasize the brilliance of the orange, making it leap off the paper and ensuring that the viewer's attention is firmly fixed on the subject.

The text on the poster is kept to a minimum, with the word "Bitter Campari" elegantly rendered in bold green letters just below the orange slice. This simplicity in typography further highlights Cappiello's design philosophy of using bold imagery to convey a brand's message.

The poster is a prime example of Cappiello's ability to combine artistic innovation with commercial effectiveness. It captures the spirit of the Campari brand by visually conveying the essence of its key ingredient, the orange peel, in a bold and unforgettable way. This iconic poster is not only a testament to Cappiello's artistic brilliance but also a timeless symbol of the golden age of advertising and graphic design. It continues to be celebrated and revered by collectors, art enthusiasts, and vintage poster aficionados around the world for its enduring beauty and impact.