CYRK Star Elephant 1974 Polish Circus Poster, Wasilewski

We adore this original Polish Cyrk/Circus poster from 1974. Featuring powerfully  melancholy artwork by Mieczyslaw Wasilewski. Sumptuous and striking, it's simply the star of the show!

The ‘Cyrk” circus poster in Poland appeared for the first time in 1962 when the ZPR (Zjednoczone Przedsiębiorstwa Rozrywkowe, or United Entertainment Enterprises), the state agency that oversaw the circus, commissioned leading artists from the Polish School of Posters to develop a modern approach to the circus poster.

The ZPR wanted a new look for the circus poster to complement the circus’ efforts to upgrade its image. Not intended to advertise specific performances, they, rather, celebrated the essence of the circus through rich artistic expression with designs typically featuring clever metaphors, bold colours and humour. Heavy in symbolism, provocative and highly original the designs remain contemporary to this day and continue to gain appreciation.

This very rare first edition vintage offset lithograph is sized 26 1/4 x 37 3/4 inches and in rolled Near Mint condition.