Skip to main content
Go to accessibility options

Description

The Missouri Breaks (United Artists, 1976), Original Comp Artwork of Marlon Brando by Bob Peak. "I really enjoyed working on Missouri Breaks." "I must have done literally hundreds of drawings, and sitting around discussing films with Brando and Nicholson was a particular high."
-Bob Peak

Today, The Missouri Breaks is remembered for being the sole on-screen pairing of Marlon Brando and Jack Nicholson, for being one of many film sets where Brando exhibited his notoriously difficult on-set behavior, and the dynamic, powerful poster art for the film by the legendary Bob Peak.

The film is considered to be as much commentary on the passing of the frontier myth as a traditional western, with Brando providing a truly surreal performance by playing his role of Lee Clayton with a variety of accents, styles of performance, and costumes. As he often did, Brando worked from cue cards for the film, and at some point during the filming, declared that Peak's presence sketching the characters as they worked too distracting. Despite his abbreviated presence on set, Peak was able to create a large series of initial sketches and find his angle on the film. Peak's thoughtful portrait of Brando in the final poster, and this large-scale comp is testament to his observational skill and ability to capture a fleeting moment.

Executed in conte crayon on paper, artwork measures 39" x 29", framed to 46" x 36", exhibits minimal creasing with light rubbing and small tear on the lefthand side at middle. Frame exhibits display wear. With additional foam board plaque/title page with Peak copyright paper. Signed B. Peak in the center right. Not examined outside of frame.

Comes with a COA from Heritage Auctions. From the Treasures from the Bob Peak Collection.


Heritage Auctions provides as much information as possible but strongly encourages in-person inspection. Condition statements are offered as general guidance only, not as complete representations of fact, and do not constitute a warranty or assumption of liability by Heritage. Some condition issues may not be noted but may be visible in the photos, which are considered part of the condition report. Lots estimated at $1,000 or less are not de-framed for inspection, and we may be unable to provide additional details for lots valued under $500. Heritage does not guarantee the condition of frames and is not liable for damage to frames, glass/acrylic coverings, original boxes, display accessories, or artwork that has shifted in the frame. All lots are sold "AS IS" under our Terms & Conditions of Auction.

Auction Info

Auction Dates
July, 2025
16th-18th Wednesday-Friday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 2
Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
Page Views: 395

Buyer's Premium per Lot:
25% of the successful bid per lot.

Shipping, Taxes, Terms and Bidding
Sales Tax information

Important information concerning Sales Tax and Resale Certificates. Learn More

Terms and Conditions  |  Bidding Guidelines and Bid Increments |  Glossary of Terms
Sold on Jul 16, 2025 for: Sign-in or Join (free & quick)
Track Item