“Le Petit Matin” (別れの朝), Original Japanese Movie Poster 1971, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) — ZA1117

An original Japanese B2 theatrical poster for Le Petit Matin, released in Japan as 別れの朝 (Wakare no Asa, “Morning of Farewell”). Directed by Jean-Gabriel Albicocco, the film stars Catherine Jourdan and Mathieu Carrière, with music by Francis Lai. Its first Japanese release was on 25 December 1971, through Shochiku Eihai.

Adapted from Christine de Rivoyre’s novel, this French romantic drama follows a young French woman’s relationship with a German officer during the Second World War. Its themes of love, separation, and loss find a fitting expression in this atmospheric Japanese design.

A large, contemplative portrait of Catherine Jourdan dominates the composition, surrounded by softly layered woodland and reflections on a still pond. Two distant riders on horseback emerge through the mist, giving the artwork a quiet, dreamlike quality. Below, a stark sandy landscape, fallen timber, and small figures introduce a more sombre contrast.

The original French title, le petit matin, appears in delicate golden script above an inset photograph of Jourdan and Carrière. Across the lower left, the Japanese title is rendered in expressive blue lettering, providing a striking counterpoint to the muted greens and warm cream tones.

The promotional text also draws attention to the soundtrack:

「フランシス・レイの別離のテーマ！」
“Francis Lai’s theme of parting!”

The combination of romantic imagery, restrained colour, and distinctive Japanese typography makes this an appealing piece for collectors of French cinema, Francis Lai soundtracks, and atmospheric film-poster design.

Condition: Excellent. 

Please review all photographs, including the reverse, as they show the exact poster for sale.

Format: Japanese B2, approximately 51 × 73 cm.
Stock code: ZA1117.

An original theatrical poster, over 50 years old. It is not a reproduction or a reprint.

Certificate of Authenticity included.