Annie Get Your Gun (Los Angeles Civic Light Opera Souvenir Program)
Print / Ephemera (Souvenir Program Cover) • Gosset (signed lower right); commissioned for Gene Mann production.
Style & Movement
Mid-century Modern Graphic Illustration / Caricature
Medium & Technique
Lithograph or offset print on paper, utilizing a limited color palette of orange, black, and white with linear cartooning techniques.
Creation Period
Circa 1947
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 9 x 12 inches; Portrait format.
Subject Description
The artwork depicts a stylized caricature of Annie Oakley holding a rifle and waving a cowboy hat, rendered in a two-tone fringed western outfit. In the background are smaller figures representing cast members including Frank Butler and Buffalo Bill, under circus tent banners. Text reads 'Gene Mann presents Annie Get Your Gun'.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good. The paper shows slight toning and minor edge wear consistent with age.
Estimated Market Value
$50.00 - $150.00 USD
Auction Estimate
$40.00 - $100.00 USD
Provenance History
Originally sold as merchandise at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles during the Gene Mann production of the musical in the late 1940s. Likely held in a private collection of theatre memorabilia.
Art Historical Significance
Representational of post-war American musical theatre promotion. This specific program documents the early regional successes of Irving Berlin's 'Annie Get Your Gun' under producer Gene Mann, who was instrumental in the Los Angeles theatrical scene.
Notable Features
Features the signature of the illustrator 'Gosset' in the lower right corner; specifically identifies the Gene Mann production which often starred Mary Martin or Martha Raye during this era.
Condition Issues
Visible light browning/oxidation of paper (toning), minor corner bumping, and subtle surface soiling.
Conservation Recommendations
Store in an acid-free, archival-quality sleeve with a backing board. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent further yellowing or fading of the orange pigment.