Man does not live by bread alone, Spain.

In 1959, Barcelona was a city beginning to stir from a long, quiet slumber, seeking nourishment not just for the body, but for the soul. This original Spanish poster for the VIII Feria Anual del Libro de Ocasión (8th Annual Used and Rare Book Fair) captures that exact hunger with a simple, resonant truth: "No solo de pan vive el hombre"—Man does not live by bread alone.
The Call of the Written Word
Imagine walking through the Plaza de la Universidad between September 19th and 29th, 1959. Amidst the daily bustle for basic needs, a different kind of sustenance was being offered. The poster depicts two whimsical figures in a joyful exchange: while one carries a humble loaf of bread, he reaches out to accept a book from his companion, whose own arms are filled with the weight of "Ancient and Modern" treasures.
This is more than an advertisement; it is a persuasive invitation to rediscover yourself. It suggests that while bread may quiet the stomach, a book—whether a centuries-old rarity or a modern gem—is what truly feeds the spirit.
A Legacy of Literary Passion
Designed by the pioneering graphic artist Ricard Giralt Miracle (under his Filograf studio), the poster’s bold red and stark white silhouettes reflect the mid-century modern energy that was then transforming Spanish design. It stands as a testament to a tradition that began in 1952 and continues to this day, celebrating the "circular economy" of literature where every used book is a memory waiting to be shared.
Stepping into this fair wasn't just about shopping; it was about joining a community of dreamers, collectors, and seekers. It was a reminder that in the heart of Barcelona, the most valuable things we carry aren't always the ones that fill our bellies, but the ones that expand our minds.
Size: 50x35 cm
Publisher: I.G. Ferre Olsina.
Material: cardboard
Made in Barcelona, Spain.
Language: Spanish
Condition: as seen on the pictures.