Banknote Billet France 100 francs Paul Cézanne 1997

Remarks:

Plis et salissures

The 100 francs Cézanne banknote is an issue by the Banque de France dating from 1997, belonging to series Y. It pays tribute to the post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne (1839-1906), a major figure in the history of French art and a precursor of Cubism, born in Aix-en-Provence.

This banknote, with a face value of 100 francs, is part of the French tradition of celebrating great national cultural and artistic figures on its currency. The portrait of Paul Cézanne occupies a central place, accompanied by direct references to his pictorial work. Notable among these are evocations of the Mont Sainte-Victoire, the painter's favourite subject, which he depicted numerous times throughout his career, as well as characteristic elements of his technique and artistic world, such as still lifes with apples and fruits.

The front of the banknote features the painter's face in a refined graphic style, incorporating decorative elements linked to his work. The reverse also features pictorial motifs inspired by his most celebrated compositions. The dominant colours of the banknote revolve around warm tones, evoking the southern palette so dear to Cézanne.

This banknote is part of the last generation of French franc banknotes before the introduction of the euro in 2002, making it a direct witness to a bygone monetary era. Series Y denotes a technical subdivision specific to the numbering and management of successive issues of this banknote by the Banque de France. The banknote weighs 1 gram and incorporates the security features typical of banknotes of this period, guaranteeing its authenticity and resistance to counterfeiting.