Ludwig (1972) – Original U.S. One-Sheet Movie Poster (27x41”) | Luchino Visconti’s Historical Epic | Helmut Berger, Romy Schneider | MGM | Folded

Description:

Offered here is an original 1972 U.S. one-sheet movie poster for Ludwig, Luchino Visconti’s sweeping biographical epic starring Helmut Berger as King Ludwig II of Bavaria and Romy Schneider reprising her role as Empress Elisabeth of Austria. A visually stunning meditation on power, beauty, and decadence, Ludwig stands as one of Visconti’s grandest achievements—an operatic reflection on obsession and isolation.

The poster design perfectly echoes the film’s grandeur and melancholy, with regal portraiture, subdued color tones, and classical typography characteristic of MGM’s prestige releases of the early 1970s. Its symmetrical layout and painterly finish reflect Visconti’s own visual sensibility—lavish yet introspective, historical yet deeply human.

Poster is folded, as issued, and while the front is well preserved with only minor edge wear and toning, the reverse shows some staining, browning, and handwriting, placing it in Very Good condition.

Ships folded in archival plastic sleeve with sturdy backing.

A desirable piece for collectors of LGBTQ+ cinema history, European auteur films, or lovers of classic 70s arthouse posters. Displays beautifully and offers strong historical and cinematic value. 

Ludwig posters are prized among collectors for their association with European art cinema’s golden age and the enduring appeal of Visconti’s opulent visual style. The U.S. one-sheet is particularly desirable for its refined, minimalist composition—reflecting the sophistication of MGM’s 1970s marketing for international auteurs.