This is an original Japanese poster, printed in 1953 for the first Japanese release of Hondo — the classic Western starring John Wayne. Now over 70 years old, this poster remains in exceptional condition and has been professionally conservation linen-backed to ensure it will be preserved for generations to come.
Hondo was a groundbreaking 3D Western, shot in WarnerColor and directed by John Farrow, with a screenplay based on Louis L’Amour’s short story The Gift of Cochise. The film was so successful that L’Amour adapted it into a novel, published concurrently with the film’s release in 1953 — a rare case of a novelization being written by the original author.
The film features John Wayne in one of his most iconic roles, alongside Geraldine Page, who received an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The supporting cast includes Ward Bond, James Arness, and Leo Gordon.
Production ran over schedule, and legendary director John Ford was brought in by Wayne to film the climactic battle scenes. Though uncredited, Ford’s hand can be seen in the film’s final dramatic sequence — a standout moment in Western cinema.
This original Japanese poster features striking Showa-era artwork unique to its 1953 release, and is a rare surviving piece of international Western film history.
We sent this poster from Tokyo to California, where it was expertly linen-backed by one of the leading poster restoration studios in the world. Their best-in-class work ensures the poster is preserved in archival, display-ready condition.
It is over 73 years old!
This poster is in mint condition. Please refer to the imagery as this is the exact poster that is for sale.
It is not a reproduction or a reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.