The Auction at Graceland•January 8, 2020
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/8/2020
Popular in the late 1960s and 70s, black-light posters used ink that contained phosphorus which resulted in a glowing effect when exposed to ultraviolet light. Black-light posters became popular in the late 1960s when the counterculture that enjoyed psychedelic drugs emerged and the black-light posters were believed to visually simulate similar sensations to those experienced under the influence. The posters also became popular methods of advertising for concert venues and musical groups during the period. The posters with their phosphorescent ink and black flocking gave them a Day-Glo, three-dimensional velvety appearance. The height of popularity of this art form was reached in the 1970s and of course, Colonel Parker was never one to miss a promotional opportunity, and so capitalized on this trend by creating black-light posters with Elvis’ image. Offered is a trio of black light posters made in 1975 to promote the King of rock ’n roll that illustrate his innate ability to evolve and remain on trend over the decades. Each poster captures Elvis in his iconic jumpsuit set against an array of neon colors and black flocking for a most striking visual impact. The large poster contains three images of Elvis with legal type at the bottom that reads “ELVIS ©1975 DYNAMIC PUB. CO. MEDINA, OHIO, U.S.A. COLLECTOR SERIES NO. FOUR.” The smaller poster has legal type at the bottom that reads “KING ©1975 PRO ARTS INC., MEDINA, OHIO U.S.A.” The large poster with the single image of Elvis measure 33 1/2 by 21 1/5 inches (85.09 x 53.84 cm), the large poster with three images of Elvis measures 32 by 20 3/4 inches (81.28 x 52.70 cm), and the smaller poster with two images of Elvis measures 16 by 10 1/4 inches (40.64 x 26.03 cm). This trio of quintessential ‘70s velvety black light posters are accompanied by a letter of authenticity from Graceland Authenticated.
All three posters are free of major defects, but show some scuffing and minor scratches. The two large posters are mounted on foam core, and all three have tape or tape residue on the reverse. But all have bright, bold colors. Excellent condition overall.