"Vanessa" 1967 Grande Ballroom, Detroit Poster Signed by Carl Lundgren, Graded 5.5 (AOR-3.145). ...

Description

THE FIRST SIGNED "VANESSA" WE'VE EVER OFFERED

"Vanessa" 1967 Grande Ballroom, Detroit Poster Signed by Carl Lundgren, Graded 5.5 (AOR-3.145). An original first-and-only vintage printing concert poster for the James Cotton Blues Band, the MC5 and Billy C and the Sunshine playing at the Grande Ballroom in Detroit, Michigan on Friday and Saturday nights, November 10 & 11, 1967. Promoted by Russ Gibb and designed by Carl Lundgren, this specimen has been signed by Mr. Lundgren down in the lower right, the first signed copy of this poster Heritage has ever had. (Of course, it's so rare that we've only had three total before this.)

This poster is recognized as the most popular concert poster ever produced out of Detroit. It's a masterwork that dazzles the eye with its green and magenta colors, its psychedelic lettering and pinwheel, and of course the dominant presence of actress-goddess Vanessa Redgrave.

Grande Ballroom posters were produced in much smaller quantities than their San Francisco counterparts, so unlike the BGs and FDs, it's very hard to find this poster in any condition. There were also far fewer collectors to save these things in the motor city, until many years later when most copies had been carelessly discarded. Measures 14" x 24 1/4" and was graded to a restored 5.5 Fine Minus by CGC (the Certified Guaranty Company). From the David Swartz Concert Poster Collection. COA from Heritage Auctions.

Literature: See Grushkin, Paul, The Art of Rock: Posters from Presley to Punk, Abbeville Press, New York, 1987, p.301 (illus.).

More Information: In the grading strip CGC uses the wording, "Restoration: Color touch, pieces added, reinforced." Notice that this poster is officially known as G/G-671110-OP-1 in the Grande Ballroom numbered series, per Eric King's guidebook.


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.