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"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
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"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
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"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Saul Bass was an American graphic designer and filmmaker whose innovative approach transformed film advertising in the mid-twentieth century. Renowned for his collaborations with directors such as Otto Preminger, Bass introduced a new visual language to movie posters, using distilled forms and bold typography that could instantly capture a film’s essence. His work helped elevate the movie poster from mere promotion to collectible design, influencing generations of artists and designers.
Bass’s posters, including this one for Saint Joan, are now considered icons within the world of classic cinema posters, admired for their ability to communicate complex narratives through minimal visual cues.
The Artwork
Created for the 1957 release of Saint Joan, this poster was designed to encapsulate the film’s exploration of Joan of Arc’s trial and the tension between individual conviction and institutional power. The film, based on George Bernard Shaw’s play, emphasizes debate and moral struggle over spectacle, prompting Bass to distill the narrative into a single, striking image. The poster’s emblematic approach reflects the era’s interest in psychological drama and the enduring relevance of Joan’s story.
As a piece of vintage film ephemera, it stands as both a historical artifact and a testament to the power of graphic design in shaping cultural memory, making it a valued addition to collections of advertising art and mid-century design.
Style & Characteristics
The poster is defined by its high-contrast composition: a deep black background interrupted by bold red blocks and a solitary, shadowed figure. Clean white lettering and geometric forms create a sense of order and immediacy, while the limited palette heightens the emotional impact. The abstraction avoids literal storytelling, instead suggesting themes of isolation, conflict, and resilience.
This visual economy and use of color make the poster especially appealing to fans of minimalist wall art. The red accents provide a dramatic focal point, lending the print a sense of urgency and cinematic energy.
In Interior Design
This vintage movie poster serves as a commanding centerpiece in modern interiors, particularly those with mid-century or industrial influences. Its bold graphic structure pairs well with neutral walls, matte black or white frames, and curated red accent pieces for a cohesive look. The design’s clarity and historical resonance make it suitable for living rooms, offices, or media spaces where art is meant to spark conversation and reflect a love of classic cinema.