MASTERS OF THE POSTER (Les). Monthly publication containing reproductions of the most beautiful illustrated posters by the great French and foreign artists. Preface by Roger Marx. Paris, Imprimerie Chaix, 1896-1899. 4 volumes (of 5) in-folio, publisher's illustrated green bradel cloth. Edited by the Chéret studio, the publication appeared monthly from December 1895 to November 1900, in the form of issues of 4 plates. The set includes 192 (of 240) lithographed posters and 12 (of 16) additional plates offered as a bonus to subscribers. Among the artists represented are 2 plates by Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and 4 plates by Alfons Mucha. A key work in the history of Art Nouveau, Les Maîtres de l'affiche reflects the heyday of the illustrated poster and the invention of a modern graphic language. Fifth volume missing. Scattered foxing, as usual, rubbed boards.