Lawrence Of Arabia Poster

Very rare original first release "pre-Oscars" UK Quad linen-backed cinema poster for the David Lean-Peter O'Toole epic "Lawrence of Arabia" (1963). NB. This is the Quad which was used at the initial release of the film in the UK following the premiere on 10th Dec 1962.

The Quad poster design is adapted from the Georges Kerfyser "shadowed face" poster for the US pre-Oscars release (see image attached for reference - image courtesy of emovieposter). Howard Terpning provided a second design pre-Oscars US poster which we also show for comparison (image emovieposter).

Typically following the premiere, films in the UK would first enjoy a limited West End release, followed by viewings in the largest metropolitan centres. Weeks later films would be distributed to smaller city/town venues & gradually thereafter around the country. This process took many months. As soon as the Oscar nominations were announced (Feb '63) a different poster design was printed & the subsequent "Oscars" version is the more "common" first release Quad seen for the film: for reference see this example: http://www.fiskenposter.com/Lawrence-of-Arabia--Poster/137 (NB. the "Best Picture of the Year" text distinguishes this from the second & later Quad with "Academy" text which we believe is for the first re-relese).

Prior to backing this rare poster was in excellent folded condition. There were several neat pin-holes to the corners/rim & light foldline wear only. This poster has been linen-backed but NOT over-painted (there is minimal touch-in to some foldline wear only). For an idea of relative value Christie's sold a similar "pre-Oscars" Quad poster for £13,000 in 2005 & more recently a restored example (with significant restoration ie, not as good as our example) sold at Heritage Auctions for $11,400 (£9,300). A rare poster for an iconic British film!

NB. A supplementary P&P charge will be required for this item or buyers may collect by appointment.

Price: £7995.00

Film Category: War / Drama
Director: David Lean
Actor / Actresses: Peter O'Toole, Omar Sharif, Alec Guinness
Poster Type: UK Quad (30" x 40", 76cm x 102cm)
Poster Artist: Kerfyser Georges
Condition: Excellent
Year: 1962
Reference: 61875

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