Why collect and display original
foreign posters?
Decades ago, movie
posters in this country were created exclusively for use in theaters. They
were produced in small quantities and re-used, again and again, until finally
worn-out or returned to the distributor, National Screen Service. Never intended
for the public, most of these posters were destroyed, increasing the value,
rarity and desirability of those that survived. Sadly, this is no longer
the case. Many posters are manufactured in large numbers and retailed in
stores, through the mail and online. Of course, this reduces their value.
It also makes them less interesting because they are so common. Posters produced
here in the U.S. are also frequently reprinted.
Original film
posters from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, England and other
countries remain a lot harder to find. Chances are, if you choose to purchase
an original Italian "Godfather" 39" X 55" theater poster, your neighbor isn't
going to have one! Their larger format offers unique possibilities for media
rooms, dens, lofts and home theaters. A foreign poster's artwork can be much
different too. Cultures tend to be reflected in their art. Many of these
posters are alive with bold and provocative design. They can be sophisticated,
sensual, even explicit or controversial in their approach.
Relevant poster
sizes (approximate):
U.S. - 1 sheet:
27 x 41 in., is the standard poster used in U.S. theaters. With few exceptions,
posters printed before 1985 are have two horizontal folds and one vertical
fold. Since the mid-1980s most posters have been sent to theaters rolled.
Recent posters often measure 27 x 40 in., or smaller.
Italy - 2-foglio
(due) 39 x 55 in. Standard poster size.
France - Grande:
120 cm x 160 cm (app 47 x 63in) This is the standard french
poster.
How we grade a
poster's condition:
Near Mint:
The slightest of wear. Poster can be folded. Fine: May have minimal
wear with a small number of pinholes in the borders and/or slight fold wear.
Minor tape on the back and/or very small tears are also allowable, as is
slight fading. VG-Fine: In slightly more used condition than fine,
but still very presentable. Very Good: May have some fold separation,
border staining or small tears, but the image is still relatively clean.
Good: Slightly below average used condition. Can use restoration but
is still fairly presentable.
As a general rule,
we do not sell posters rated less than "good."
Please note that
many of these wonderful posters were actually used in foreign theaters. Evidence
of use (when not serious) contributes to the charm, character and provenance
of a
piece.
Our guarantee of authenticity and
condition:
We do our best
to accurately describe the condition of our posters. If the condition of
a poster varies significantly from our description, we will offer either
a replacement, credit or full refund. Poster must be returned via insured
carrier in the same condition in which we sent it, within 10 days of receipt.
Authenticity is guaranteed for life. |
