Description
A striking French grande-format poster dominated by Boris Grinsson’s vivid and theatrical rendering of Marilyn Monroe in her iconic wind-swept pose. Set against a saturated blue ground, Monroe’s luminous yellow dress billows upward in sweeping, rhythmic curves, creating a dynamic interplay between movement and silhouette. Her figure is elongated and stylized, balancing glamour with caricature, while a diminutive, suited male figure—Tom Ewell’s character—stands below, anchoring the composition with a note of narrative humor. Grinsson’s brushwork is fluid yet controlled, with bold color blocking and painterly highlights that emphasize both sensuality and graphic clarity.
Grinsson, one of the most accomplished affichistes of mid-century France, was known for elevating commercial film posters into expressive works of graphic art. His posters for American cinema, particularly those featuring major Hollywood stars, often amplified their mythic presence through color and composition. Here, Monroe becomes less a portrait than an emblem—her form instantly recognizable, yet filtered through the distinctly French visual language of postwar poster design. Printed using traditional lithographic methods, the image retains a richness of tone and subtle gradation characteristic of the period.
This example represents a French theatrical re-release, likely from the 1960s, produced in the large “grande” format for prominent cinema display. Such reissues were printed in smaller quantities than first releases and are increasingly difficult to locate, particularly in this scale and condition. Grinsson’s Monroe imagery remains among the most sought-after in the field of French film posters, with enduring appeal across both cinema and design-focused collections.
Condition
Professionally linen-backed with original fold lines carefully restored. Minor age wear consistent with prior theatrical use. Colors remain vibrant and well-saturated, with strong overall presentation.
Authentication
This poster is guaranteed authentic and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity. Issued by an IVPDA-certified dealer.
Boris Grinsson (1907-1999)
Date:c. 1976 – Rerelease
Size:46″ ” x 61.75″
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