ORIGINAL GOLEM POSTER

Earlier this year, Heritage Auctions sold a (very) vintage 1920 poster of Paul Wegner's THE GOLEM. It is a beautiful example of German expressionism that was popular during the period. 

The artwork is by Austrian illustrator, Theo Matejko (1893-1946). He was one of the travelers on the Graf Zepplin's first trans-Atlantic flight. He served Austria in WWI and his propaganda posters for HItler's Wehrmacht were prolific.

When the gavel dropped, the piece was sold for $4,800.00.

Lot Description:

The Golem (Universum Film, 1920). Very Fine- on Linen. Austrian Poster (37.5" X 28.5") Theo Matejko Artwork.

A beautiful stone litho piece never before offered at Heritage, this poster features an impressive illustration by the skilled Austrian artist Theo Matejko. Seen as an excellent example of German expressionism and a potential inspiration for Universal's 1931 Frankenstein, this cinematic retelling of the famous Jewish folktale has Paul Wegener playing the magical clay giant that is both the savior and the destroyer of a Jewish community. As the most important part of a two to three panel poster, this upper panel has an excellent image of both Wegener and Ernst Deutcsh as the misguided assistant to the rabbi. Considering the placement of the panels, it is possible that theaters could choose to display the poster either in its complete state, in combined segments of the top two or top and bottom panels, or as the top or bottom panels by themselves. The poster presents very well with almost no flaws in the interior, showing edge and fold wear, slight fold separations, and some minor chips and tears. Although backed on linen, no touchup has been applied.