The Dam Busters Poster
Rare linen-backed UK Quad cinema poster for the classic WWII film "The Dam Busters" (1955) with poster illustration by Angelo Cesselon.
The film recounts the daring raid on the Ruhr dams in May 1943, led by Guy Gibson of 617 Squadron. The RAF used innovative "bouncing bombs" designed by Barnes Wallis to wreak havoc on the enemy. Gibson was awarded the VC for his part in the raid.
This poster is the rare first release poster for the film (beware reduced colour re-release posters that are sometimes offered instead). This "Dam Busters" Quad is the most highly sought after of all WWII film posters. Sotheby's sold one example for £20,000 in 2020.
Interesting that an Italian artist was chosen for such a classic British war film but Angelo Cesselon delivers a masterly composition that does justice to the heroic nature of the subject (he was chosen a year later to provide the UK poster artwork for the Douglas Bader film "Reach For The Sky" too).
We got this poster backed because of general creasing. It was folded (as issued), had a few pin-holes to corners & several small edge nicks but overall was in very good condition. Backing, however, has addressed the creasing & has lifted this poster to another level. There was NO requirement for any restoration to the artwork. A fabulous piece of British cinema & military history & a poster that displays to superb effect.
NB. A supplementary P&P charge will be required for all buyers though collection (by appointment) can also be arranged.
Price: £8750.00
Film Category: War / Motor / Aviation
Director: Michael Anderson
Actor / Actresses: Richard Todd, Michael Redgrave, Ursula Jeans
Poster Type: UK Quad (30" x 40", 76cm x 102cm)
Poster Artist: Cesselon Angelo
Condition: Excellent
Year: 1955
Reference: 62327
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