The Temperance Seven (1961) Album Cover
Commercial graphic art and design; mixed media (offset lithography on cardboard sleeve and pressed vinyl record) • Graphic designer unknown; published by Parlophone Records (EMI)
Style & Movement
Mid-century British Pop/Revivalist; Traditional Jazz aesthetic
Medium & Technique
Offset lithography on cardstock (cover); pressed polyvinyl chloride with printed paper labels (disc)
Creation Period
1961
Dimensions & Format
12.375 x 12.375 inches approx. (Standard LP Square Format)
Subject Description
A black and white photograph of nine members of The Temperance Seven jazz band, posed with vintage brass and woodwind instruments, framed within a faux-trompe l'oeil Victorian oval picture frame printed on a brown background. The imagery reflects the band's 1920s jazz revivalist theme and Edwardian satirical persona.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good; visible wear on sleeve edges and corners, with typical surface scuffs on the vinyl disc.
Estimated Market Value
$15 - $40 USD (Highly dependent on vinyl playback quality and sleeve integrity)
Auction Estimate
$10 - $25 USD
Provenance History
Originally manufactured in Great Britain as a mass-produced consumer audio product; private collection. Parlophone black and gold label indicates an early UK pressing.
Art Historical Significance
Significant as a representation of the 1960s 'Trad Jazz' boom in the UK. The Temperance Seven were a key cultural phenomenon during the era George Martin produced at Parlophone, shortly before the British Invasion changed the musical landscape.
Notable Features
Features the iconic 'Parlophone' black/gold 'long playing' label with the '£' logo used before the standard silver/black transition; mono press identification (PMC 1152).
Condition Issues
Sleeve shows ring wear, corner blunting, and edge fraying. Vinyl exhibits visible surface scratches and spindle marks indicative of frequent play. Minor yellowing to the white circular areas of the cover.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in an acid-free poly-sleeve; clean vinyl with a specialized carbon fiber brush or wet-cleaning system; keep away from direct sunlight and heat to prevent warping.
Collector Notes
Vinyl LP and Cover