Banknote Billet France 100 francs Paul Cézanne 1997

The 100 francs Cézanne banknote was issued in 1997 by the Banque de France. It belongs to series J and pays tribute to the French post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne (1839-1906), a major figure in the history of Western art, whose work profoundly influenced the artistic movements of the 20th century, notably Cubism.

The obverse of the banknote features a portrait of Paul Cézanne, reproduced from a photograph, accompanied by details evocative of his artistic world. The background includes characteristic elements of his work, notably representations of Mont Sainte-Victoire, a recurring motif in his painting, as well as still lifes with apples, one of his most iconic themes. The colour palette of the banknote is primarily built around orange and ochre tones, reminiscent of the warm hues of Provence.

The reverse takes up and develops these pictorial references with the partial reproduction of some of his canvases, thus reinforcing the link between the banknote and the painter's creative world. Security graphic elements are integrated into the overall composition of the banknote, in accordance with the manufacturing standards in force at that time.

This banknote was designed by graphic artist and painter Jöel Larrivée, in collaboration with the Banque de France. It is printed on fiduciary paper and features the usual security devices of French banknotes of the era, including a watermark, an integrated security thread and special inks.

This banknote represents one of the last issues of French franc banknotes before the transition to the euro in 2002, making it a significant testament to French numismatics at the end of the 20th century. Its face value is 100 francs.