Further images
Commissioned as propaganda by the Soviet state to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the 1905 revolution, Sergei Eisentstein's landmark and visionary masterpiece redefined the art of cinema and influenced generations of film-makers. Extolling the power of mass solidarity to triumph over tyrannical regime, the silent film presented a dramatised account of the Battleship Potemkin mutiny and its aftermath, which saw a street demonstration turn to a ruthless massacre of civilians in the seaport of Odessa. The film's dramatic montage sequence at the Odessa steps has become one of the most famous and imitated in cinema history, its rapid editing culminating in a baby carriage careering to certain doom. Referencing the film's revolutionary montage techniques, this striking poster for the first Japanese release features the chaotic scene at the Odessa steps, overlaid with a silhouette of the titular battleship with it's silvery smoke forming a haunting horror-struck face.
Condition
Good (B)
Backed on linen. Prior to backing this poster was roughly tri-folded with some heavy creasing to fold lines, an additional horizontal crease through centre, pin holes to upper corners, minor nicks and creases to edges (the largest a 1.5 in. tear to upper edge), a handful of old tape stains throughout and a small loss to lower left corner due to tape removal. Cleaning and backing has smoothed the fold lines and diminished the appearance of the tape stains. Expert restoration to the small loss at lower left corner has improved its appearance for display. Image and colours otherwise excellent.