Early 20th century travel posters capture the era’s aesthetic sensibility. Two designers led the way promoting Australia to the world in the interwar period. James Northfield was best known for his work with the Australian National Travel Association, often spruiking the merits of train travel throughout the continent, appealing to the beauty of the Australian wilderness. Percival Albert Trompf painted thousands of posters for companies including Bryant & May Pty Ltd and Palmolive Co Ltd, as well as the magazine Walkabout. His most popular designs depicted historical events, such as the building of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Works from both designers will be auctioned at New York’s Swann Auction Galleries this week. Here’s a selection of the Australian offerings – and some international ones