Paris Blues

About the Item

Original French painting gouache on art board used to create the French film poster for the 1961 American drama Paris Blues. The film was directed by Martin Ritt, and stars Sidney Poitier and Paul Newman. It was based on the novel of the same name by Harold Flender, and tells the story of two jazz musicians living in Paris who meet two American tourists. The original novel and first draft of the screenplay focussed mainly on interracial romance. The studio didn't think that the American public were ready for such a story, and therefore just hinted at this aspect in the film, focusing more on Paris's acceptance of black people, which was in direct contrast to the racism in American at the time. The film has a great soundtrack by Duke Ellington and featured guest performer Louis Armstrong. This painting is Gouache on art board and in excellent condition, with the colors remaining very bright. Original artworks rarely surface, as the majority were destroyed. This artwork was previously part of a private French collection of poster artworks. This piece is conservation framed with UV plexiglass in a Tulip wood frame. The size given is before framing and the framed size is 44 3/4 x 34 1/4 in. (113.5 x 87 cm).

Dimensions:

Height: 35.5 in (90.17 cm)Width: 26.5 in (67.31 cm)Depth: 0.1 in (2.54 mm)

Materials and Techniques:

Paint

Place of Origin:

France

Period:

1960-1969

Date of Manufacture:

1961

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use.