Richard Avedon Paul McCartney Beatles 1967 Stern Poster Linen Backed Original
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About This Piece
“Flower Power Paul” — Paul McCartney
An original 1967 first-edition psychedelic portrait of Paul McCartney — titled “Flower Power Paul” — from Richard Avedon’s landmark Beatles series. This is the German Stern edition: printed in England by Waterlow & Sons and distributed by Populäre Propaganda Presse (PPP), Düsseldorf. McCartney appears wreathed in blooming flowers, rendered in Avedon’s solarized Day-Glo color — the purest distillation of 1967’s flower-power spirit.
Not a reproduction. A genuine 1967 first printing — the only version considered an authentic original.
Avedon Beatles poster: A Rare Original by Richard Avedon
| Artist | Richard Avedon (1923–2004) |
| Subject / Title | Paul McCartney, The Beatles — “Flower Power Paul” |
| Year | 1967 — Limited First Edition |
| Edition / Source | Stern (German-market printing) |
| Rights / Printer | © NEMS Enterprises Ltd. · Printed in England by Waterlow & Sons Ltd. · PPP, Düsseldorf |
| Medium | Offset lithograph (solarized with Day-Glo overlays) |
| Size | Approx. 19″ × 27″ (50 × 70 cm) image, plus linen border |
| Provenance | Gauntlet Gallery (est. 2012, San Francisco) |
Condition
Excellent condition. Professionally linen-backed. Stored rolled from the day of acquisition and only recently opened for photography. Never displayed by the current collection. No visible flaws or signs of aging.
About the Work
Beatles manager Brian Epstein commissioned Avedon to photograph the band on 11 August 1967 in London, capturing the psychedelic turn of the Sgt. Pepper era. Avedon distorted four solarized portraits with Day-Glo overlays and symbolic attributes; the set’s order form named them Flame Bright John, Flower Power Paul, Mystic George, and Dove Loving Ringo. The images were first published in the 9 January 1968 issue of Look and distributed simultaneously by Look (US), the Daily Express (UK), and Stern (Europe), alongside a black-and-white “Mount Rushmore” banner that completes the set of five.
Though originally printed in a large edition at the height of Beatlemania, few survive unused — most were taped to walls and discarded. An example of the Stern set is held in the collection of the Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
About the Artist
Richard Avedon (1923–2004) was one of the most influential photographers of the twentieth century, redefining fashion and portraiture at Harper’s Bazaar, Vogue, and The New Yorker. His psychedelic Beatles series stands among his most iconic non-fashion works and a defining visual statement of the 1960s.
Iconic 1967 Photography with Lasting Appeal
The Avedon Beatles poster captures one of the most memorable moments in music and photography history. Created by legendary photographer Richard Avedon, this original 1967 Stern poster features Paul McCartney during the height of The Beatles’ cultural influence. The image reflects the bold style and artistic vision that made Avedon famous, combining strong composition with a striking portrait presence. For collectors of Beatles memorabilia, music history, or fine photography, this poster offers both visual power and historical importance. It is a standout piece that brings together pop culture and museum-quality presentation in one rare collectible.
Linen Backed for Preservation and Display
This original poster has been professionally linen backed, which helps support the paper, improve stability, and preserve its condition for long-term enjoyment. Linen backing is especially valued by collectors because it can strengthen vintage paper while maintaining the poster’s original character. It also makes the piece easier to frame and display. Whether you are building a serious Beatles collection or searching for a decorative statement item, this Avedon Beatles poster delivers both authenticity and durability. Its preserved format makes it suitable for home, office, gallery, or music room display, while keeping its vintage charm intact.
Highly Collectible Beatles and Avedon Artwork
As an original Stern poster tied to Richard Avedon and Paul McCartney, this piece holds strong appeal for art buyers and Beatles fans alike. Original posters from this era are increasingly difficult to find, especially in well-preserved, linen-backed condition. The combination of Avedon’s name, McCartney’s image, and the 1967 release date gives this work strong collectible value and wide display appeal. It is more than just a poster; it is a piece of cultural history connected to one of the most influential bands of all time. For collectors seeking authenticity, rarity, and iconic design, this poster is an exceptional choice.