Tri soldata - Aleksandr Ivanov - Avant Garde 1932

The 1932 Soviet movie poster by Vladimir Stenberg is a striking and quintessential example of early 20th-century constructivist design, created to promote the film ТРИ (Three). This bold and dynamic poster reflects the innovative spirit of Soviet graphic design during the 1920s and 1930s, a period marked by groundbreaking artistic movements that combined art, propaganda, and technology.

Vladimir Stenberg, along with his brother Georgii Stenberg, revolutionized poster art through their pioneering work in the Soviet avant-garde. The Stenberg brothers were celebrated for their ability to distill complex cinematic themes into powerful visual imagery. This 1932 poster is no exception, showcasing a masterful balance between minimalist design, dramatic portraiture, and typographic precision.

The central focus of the poster is a striking close-up of a man's face, rendered in stark black and gray tones. The hat's sharp lines and shading give the composition an almost three-dimensional quality, highlighting the Stenberg brothers' innovative use of perspective and lighting. The intense expression of the character adds a sense of intrigue and drama, drawing viewers into the narrative of the film.

On the right, the title ТРИ (Three) is boldly printed in large, green Cyrillic letters, its simplicity creating a strong visual impact against the light beige background. This deliberate typographic choice contrasts with the intricate detailing of the face, guiding the viewer's attention seamlessly across the composition.

On the left side of the poster, additional film credits are listed in smaller green text against a black background. The hierarchy of information is carefully structured, ensuring clarity and readability while maintaining the overall visual harmony of the design. This layout reflects the Stenberg brothers' meticulous approach to graphic organization, which was a hallmark of their work.

The poster's aesthetic aligns perfectly with the ideals of Soviet constructivism, emphasizing geometric forms, industrial influences, and a rejection of ornamental excess. The use of high-contrast shading and sharp angles reinforces a sense of modernity and purpose, mirroring the socialist values and technological optimism of the era.

The film ТРИ (Three), released in 1932, was part of the Soviet cinema movement that sought to explore themes of collective struggle, heroism, and societal transformation. Posters like this one served not only as advertisements but also as cultural tools, reflecting and promoting the ideals of the time.

Today, this original movie poster by Vladimir Stenberg is regarded as a masterpiece of graphic design and a testament to the Stenberg brothers' visionary approach to visual storytelling. It remains a highly sought-after piece among collectors and enthusiasts of Soviet avant-garde art, celebrated for its bold aesthetic, historical significance, and enduring impact on modern design.

Original Poster

Cinema - USSR - Military - Russia

Varvara Myasnikova - Sergey Gerasimov

Good condition, traces of folds