Poster Auctions Overview

Posters have been an important part of our history with political posters providing an intriguing insight into the issues of their time. posters are also an art form that has been used for centuries to advertise events, sell products, promote political campaigns or encourage people to fight for their country in war time. During the twentieth century, posters gained a new importance, especially during the two World Wars. Even when these war ended, many posters continued to exert their influence during the Cold War.

The first modern poster was created by French poster artist Jules Cheret. Cheret's technique created vibrant colours and textures. He often drew subjects in a romantic style and these posters proved to be a hit with advertisers of the time.

Posters were initially printed in black-and-white. Then when the cost of paper dropped drastically new printing techniques led to mass production. Many of the great poster artists of the 19th century were from Paris. These include Bonnard, Grasset, Forain, Steinlen, and Toulouse-Lautrec. During the early twentieth century, the Bauhaus school of graphic design experimented with legibility and typography.

Posters grew in popularity during the twentieth century when some of the most beautiful and iconic posters of all time were created. Over the last three to four years the desire for original vintage posters has steadily increased. Here at Wilson55, we have a track record of selling fine art posters as well as advertising posters and signs on the topics of Automobilia, Movies and Music in our quarterly 20th Century Art & Design Auctions. 

Poster Valuation

We are currently looking to expand this department by accepting consignments of vintage sporting, musical theatre, travel and local interest (Cheshire, Manchester, Liverpool & Staffordshire) themed posters and signs. If you would like a free online valuation of your items, please use the form below.