Erv Raible began collecting art when he and his business partner, Robert Hoskins, opened cabaret and piano bar-style clubs in New York City. At one of the clubs, revitalized chandeliers that resembled those at the Moulin Rouge in the 1890s reminded Raible of the artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. From that point forward, Fin de siècle French prints became the collectors’ focus and ambiance for the renovated club.

Over the years, Raible had collected more than 200 art objects from the late 19th century. The collection, including advertisements, magazine covers, books, and other ephemera, was donated to the GVSU Art Museum by Elaine Rutowski Shay, a friend of Raible, in 2008. This collection offers a unique look into Parisian society and culture at the turn of the century. Items from the Collection have been included in courses of study, and many reproductions of the artworks can be found on display throughout GVSU campuses.

Explore Fin de siècle French prints