Rare Film Posters Set to Light Up Auction in Dallas
Dozens of rare posters from some of the most iconic films of the 20th century are poised to capture the spotlight at an upcoming auction in Dallas. Renowned American collector Dwight Cleveland is parting ways with about 500 of his cherished film posters and lobby cards that span decades of cinematic history, including gems like “King Kong,” “Casablanca,” and “2001: A Space Odyssey.” After being showcased in prominent cities like London, New York, and Chicago, these historic pieces are set to be auctioned by Heritage Auctions on March 27 and 28, 2023.
Cleveland, a real estate professional who has spent more than 50 years carefully curating this remarkable collection, expressed his deep emotional connection to each piece. “I cherish every single one of them because every one of them was hand-picked,” he stated. His lottery-like find of a stunning 1933 “King Kong” poster—which features the legendary actress Fay Wray being clutched by the iconic gorilla—is projected to fetch between ,000 to ,000, demonstrating the strong market interest in such artifacts.
The allure of these posters extends beyond just their commercial value; Cleveland views them as essential art pieces that reflect over 125 years of film history. “These are commercial art. They were intended to grab us by the lapels and yank us into a movie theatre,” he explained. However, he advocates for viewing them as significant cultural artifacts that resonate with art lovers and film enthusiasts alike.
Cleveland’s passion for collecting ignited in his school years when he first laid eyes on vintage film posters displayed by his art teacher. One particular lobby card from the 1929 movie “Wolf Song” sparked his lifelong journey into the world of collecting. It took him a year and a half to trade items he had gathered for that treasured card, which solidified his love for this unique form of artistic expression.
This collection represents the crème de la crème of vintage film art, and Cleveland acknowledges that it’s getting progressively harder to find new pieces. Following this auction, he will still hold on to an impressive assortment of around 10,000 lobby cards and 500 posters, treasures he may one day consider donating to museums or auctioning again.
With estimates for many pieces between ,000 and ,000, Cleveland’s auction promises to attract collectors from around the globe, with expectations of raising approximately one million dollars. “I’ll be sad to see some of them go, but I’ll be happy that they’re going to be in the hands of other collectors to whom they’ll mean a lot,” Cleveland reflected.
This exciting auction is a fantastic opportunity for film aficionados and art collectors alike, igniting nostalgia for classic cinema while preserving its legacy for future generations.
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