15 - Original 1897 Issue of "Le Rire" Le Rire, or "Laughter," was a successful humor magazine published from October 1894 through the 1950's. Founded in Paris during the Belle poque by Felix Juven, Le Rire appeared as typical Parisians began to achieve more education, income and leisure time. Interest in the arts, culture and politics intensified during the Gay Nineties. Publications like this helped satisfy such curiosity. It was the most successful of all the "Journaux Humoristiques." The satirical journal was filled with excellent drawings by prominent artists. It featured full-page chromotypographs on both covers and in the centerfold. Many of these pieces are now highly desirable collectibles. The most prominent contributor was Thophile Steinlen. His illustrations were biting caricatures of the political "jackasses" of the day. Illustrations were contributed by well-known artists such as Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, Ren Georges Hermann-Paul, Juan Gris, Lucien Metivet, Georges Meunier, Jean-Louis Forain, Adolphe Willette, Joaqun Xaudar, Leonetto Cappiello, Albert Guillaume, Manuel Luque, Jules Grandjouan and Jules-Alexandre Grun. The magazine remained in business for almost sixty years, closing down in the 1950s and later reappearing for a short time in the 1970s. Good to Very Good Condition, Toning. Measures 12 Inches by 9-3/8 Inches. Shipping $20.00 (estimate $25-$50)