History of the Poster [Paperback]

Josef Muller-Brockmann (Author), Shizuko Muller-Brockmann (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 1, 2004

History of the Poster, co-written by Josef and Shizuko Muller-Brockmann, is a landmark account of one of the most prolific visual traditions of our culture. Originally published in 1971, this seminal study is clearly written and richly illustrated. Now reprinted by Phaidon Press, History of the Poster is an essential read for anyone intrigued by this most modern medium. The book presents an exhaustive collection of posters, ranging from the end of the nineteenth century until the early seventies, when the book was published for the first time. Conceived, written and designed by one of the best and most influential poster designers of the twentieth century, the book defines the nature of a poster and indicates the laws of designing it. Muller-Brockmann defines and describes four fundamental conceptions of the poster, approaching the function-type of each and presenting an array of methods used to capture the attention of the viewer. The author employs sure aesthetic judgement in his selection of images as he guides us through the formation and evolution of style, emphasis and connotation in poster design. This reprint has not tampered with the original edition's design or layout and stays true to Muller-Brockmann's original concept.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Josef Muller-Brockmann (1914-1996) was a great poster designer and a leading authority on graphic design whose own work demonstrates an immediately recognizable style of minimalist clarity and intense composition. He lectured extensively and was author of many books, among them the hugely influential Grid Systems in Graphic Design. Shizuko Muller-Brockmann, born in 1934, worked with her husband on a number of projects and was lecturer in Visual Design at Kyoto Kyoiku University. She also worked as a freelance graphic designer throughout her career.

Product Details

• Paperback: 244 pages
• Publisher: Phaidon Press; Mul edition (July 1, 2004)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0714844039
• ISBN-13: 978-0714844039
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 9.8 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 2.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (2 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #366,801 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent, March 18, 2005

By 

Thomas S. Lowry - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: History of the Poster (Paperback)

This book is mainly a pictorial of 291 poster designs from the very late 1800's up until the late 1960's. There are many great and important examples found in this book, both well and lesser known posters are showcased. Some parts of this book could described as egotistical going into the 50's and 60's as there are many Müller-Brockmann works shown; however, I found this to be quite relevant with Swiss design of that time being so revolutionary. Then again I am a great admirer of his work. Additionally, the writings throughout the book are quite enlightening and are not too heavy to read. The printing quality is great, examples are large, shown in full colour and printed on very nice stock. The creator's name, size, year, type of reproduction, and descriptions of the purpose are included for each poster. One of the pro's to this book was the inclusion of these very brief descriptions. A very good piece of information to include in a design collective as it is essential in order to judge whether or not a piece of design is effective; something a few overrated books on identity could use (e.g. Los Logos).

10 of 12 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A unique and welcome new style of artbook, August 10, 2004

By 

Midwest Book Review (Oregon, WI USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: History of the Poster (Paperback)

This new edition of History Of The Poster by Josef Muller-Brockmann (1914-1996) brings back into print a seminal work originally published in 1971 and which has been regretably out-of-print for many years. Despite its name, History Of The Poster is not so much a straightforward historical narrative as it is a fantastic gallery of posters used for politics, propaganda, advertising, and art throughout history. A tri-lingual book in English, German, and French, History Of The Poster contains a brief introductory essay then reveals almost three hundred posters in full color, followed by an afterword remarking on present and future trends. A unique and welcome new style of artbook.