Vintage Posters: Painted Movie Posters 1930–1980

Among the many art forms of the 20th century, hand-painted movie posters are among the most fascinating—yet also the most forgotten. They were created by highly talented illustrators, known as cartellonisti, who, with brushes and colors, could capture an entire film in a single image. These works were not just advertising, but true pieces of art, able to captivate the viewer even before entering the theater.

Today, thanks to technology and the passion of many collectors, these posters are making a comeback.

More and more people are rediscovering their artistic and cultural value. They are showcased in online catalogues and exhibitions, and some are even used as paintings to decorate home interiors—adding personality and style to any space.

Painted posters: when cinema was told with a brush

Between the 1930s and the 1980s, film posters were painstakingly hand-made by skilled illustrators. Using brushes and paints, they created images that conveyed the essence of a film before it was even seen.

With a single image, they could instantly communicate the film’s atmosphere, its main characters, and the kind of story audiences could expect. Just one glance was enough to spark curiosity in anyone passing by the cinema.

These vintage posters reflected the style and taste of their era, with iconic designs crafted down to the smallest detail.

Artists such as Anselmo Ballester, Luigi Martinati, Alfredo Capitani, and Ercole Brini created some of the most renowned posters, both Italian and international. Their works gave visual form to the films of directors like Fellini, De Sica, Antonioni, and Visconti—leaving a lasting mark on the visual memory of entire generations.

A treasure trove for collectors and interior design enthusiasts

Vintage film posters are now highly sought-after objects among cinema collectors, gallery owners, and interior designers.

Printed on canvas or in high-quality formats, these posters decorate homes, offices, venues, and hotels—bringing a vintage, original, and personality-filled style to any space.

Those looking for restored originals, high-quality reproductions, or custom prints can find many catalogues online.

Why choose hand-painted posters for your décor?

• Artistic value: each poster is a unique work of art.

• Visual impact: vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, expressive faces.

• Vintage authenticity: they evoke past eras and a deep connection with cinema.

• Decorative versatility: ideal for modern, classic, or industrial interiors.

From Black and White to an Explosion of Color

In the 1930s and 1940s, movie posters had a more serious style, much like the films of that era. In the 1950s and 1960s, however, vibrant colors arrived, reflecting the optimism of the economic boom. Finally, the 1970s and 1980s exploded with bolder graphic styles, infused with pop and psychedelic influences.

Each decade tells the story not only of cinema, but also of visual taste, illustrative techniques, and the evolution of visual messaging.

Hand-painted movie posters from the 1930s to the 1980s are true works of art. Created by the great Italian cartellonisti, they visually narrate the masterpieces of both Italian and international cinema.

Today, these vintage posters are collector’s items and perfect for interior design. Discover our restored posters, original prints, and canvas reproductions—ideal for adding character to any space. From Fellini’s films to 1960s noir, every image is a visual journey through the history of cinema. Browse the full catalogue and bring home a piece of culture!