Flesh Circa 1970

Issued circa 1970 for the French release of Flesh, this original theatrical poster promotes the 1968 American underground film produced by Andy Warhol and directed by Paul Morrissey. Released in France under the title La Chair and distributed by Argos Films and Pari Films, the poster prominently features the film’s celebrated leading actor, Joe Dallesandro.

A stark black-and-white photograph shows Dallesandro seated with his muscular torso exposed while holding a small child. The contrast between his sculptural physique and the domestic tenderness of the scene creates an image that is at once provocative, intimate and unexpectedly vulnerable. The photograph reflects the film’s fascination with the human body while also alluding to its themes of family, sexuality and survival.

The composition is completed by the monumental word “FLESH,” printed in brilliant red capitals across the lower section. The French title “La Chair” appears within the typography, while compact white lettering identifies Warhol, Morrissey, Dallesandro and the French distributors. The notice “Interdit aux moins de 18 ans” in the upper-right corner records the film’s adult classification and reinforces its reputation as a challenging work of countercultural cinema.

Set within New York’s underground world, Flesh follows a young hustler attempting to earn money during the course of a single day. Morrissey combined loosely structured scenes, improvised performances and an unvarnished approach to nudity and urban life. The film was the first part of his celebrated trilogy with Dallesandro, followed by Trash in 1970 and Heat in 1972.

With its uncompromising photographic imagery, bold red-and-black graphics and close association with Andy Warhol’s Factory, this original French poster is an important document of late-1960s underground culture. It is particularly appealing to collectors of Warhol-related material, Pop Art, cult cinema, LGBTQ+ history and vintage French film advertising.

Original Poster

Cinema - Advertising - Pop Art

Andy Warhol Movie and Paul Morrissey with Joe Dalllessandro

Kieffer Haberland Ivry

Good condition, traces of folds