Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (Souvenir Program/Poster Art)
Graphic print/Souvenir program cover • Signed 'Snedeker' in the lower left corner; likely a commercial illustrator for Gene Mann productions
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern illustration/Caricature (Hollywood Golden Age style)
Medium & Technique
Lithographic offset printing on textured cardstock; features stylized line drawing and halftone shading
Creation Period
circa 1951 (specifically the 5th Annual Season of the Greek Theatre)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 9 x 12 inches; vertical portrait format
Subject Description
Depicts two female protagonists, Lorelei Lee and Dorothy Shaw, in 1920s flapper-style attire standing before a theater curtain. In the background are ghostly line drawings of multiple wealthy suitors in top hats and tuxedos, symbolizing the 'gentlemen' of the title. This is advertising for the Los Angeles Greek Theatre production by Gene Mann.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; shows signs of edge wear and minor surface aging
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD (values for theater ephemera are niche; the Greek Theatre connection adds local historical value)
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Originally sold or distributed at the Greek Theatre in Griffith Park, Los Angeles, during the 1951 summer season; currently in private collection
Art Historical Significance
Represents the post-war theatrical boom in Los Angeles under producer Gene Mann, who popularized professional summer theater at the Greek Theatre. It captures the transition of the Anita Loos narrative from book/Broadway to a mass-entertainment staple before the 1953 Monroe film.
Notable Features
Includes the signature of the illustrator (Snedeker) and specific branding for the Greek Theatre's 5th season, which is a key piece of Los Angeles cultural history.
Condition Issues
Minor bumping at the corners, slight yellowing of the white cardstock (toning), and potential soft creasing on the spine edge
Conservation Recommendations
Keep in an acid-free archival sleeve with backing board; avoid direct sunlight to prevent UV fading of the black and gold inks