1942 Don’t Let Him Down WWII Lester Beall Photomontage Modernism

Date: 1942
Artist: Beall, Lester        
Size (in): 40” x 30” 
Size (cm): 101.6 x 76.2
Condition: A-
Linen backed: No 

This vintage original WWII era poster was created by the influential American graphic designer Lester Beall and issued by the wartime Office of Emergency Management in 1942.

This poster is a fine example of Beall’s modernist design style which frequently utilized elements of photomontage, bold primary colors and illustrative lines and arrows.  Similar in design and style, the posters Beall designed for the New Deal era Rural Electrification Administration and United States Housing Authority government agencies in the 1930s are considered among the finest poster designs of the 20th century.  Beall would later design posters and provide graphic design services for the United States Lines shipping company as well as other major clients.    

This vintage original poster looks pretty well unused with no tape or pinholes.  The poster shows light handling wear, some wear on the fold lines and slight toning to verso.   The poster has small areas of separation at the intersection of fold lines which are undiscernible when the poster is laid flat.   Overall condition is very good for this WWII era vintage original poster from one of America’s most highly regarded and influential graphic designers.  This poster is folded as issued and will ship that way.