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"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
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"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
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"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Eric Rohman was a Swedish poster artist whose career flourished during the dynamic era of early cinema and commercial lithography. In the 1920s, his work helped define the visual identity of Scandinavian film promotion, using bold silhouettes, striking color contrasts, and emotionally resonant imagery to capture attention in bustling urban environments.
Rohman’s posters bridge the gap between the decorative flair of late Art Deco and the practical clarity of theatrical playbills, making his designs enduring favorites among those interested in authentic vintage movie poster art from the silent film age.
The Artwork
He Who Gets Slapped, released in 1925, reflects the psychological depth that European cinema was beginning to explore. The film tells the story of a man who becomes a circus clown, using performance as both mask and shield against personal tragedy. At a time when silent film posters needed to communicate complex emotions instantly, the clown became a powerful symbol of hidden sorrow and spectacle.
This poster exemplifies how designers distilled intricate narratives into iconic imagery, resonating with audiences who were drawn to the new language of film. For those passionate about classic movie posters, it illustrates the interplay between theatrical tradition and the emerging modernity of cinema. The work also sits comfortably alongside other pieces in the advertising collection, reflecting the era’s graphic innovation.
Style & Characteristics
The poster’s composition is dominated by a close-up of a clown’s face, rendered in a high-contrast palette of black and white, with vivid red and cool blue accents. This limited color scheme ensures immediate visual impact, while the simplified forms and assertive typography evoke the urgency of public advertising from the 1920s.
The mood is both dramatic and poignant, with the clown’s expression conveying vulnerability beneath the surface. The graphic clarity and emotional directness align this piece with other striking works in the black and white and minimalist collections.
In Interior Design
This vintage film poster serves as a compelling focal point in contemporary interiors, whether displayed in a living room, hallway, or creative workspace. Its bold contrasts pair well with minimalist or modern decor, while the theatrical subject matter adds narrative depth to gallery walls.
For a harmonious look, consider framing it in black or natural wood and combining it with other graphic prints from the same era. Explore frames for display ideas and create a cohesive cinema-inspired corner with related vintage pieces.