“TRITON OF THE SEA” / 「海のトリトン」, Original Release Japanese Theatrical Poster 1979, Osamu Tezuka / Yoshinobu Nishizaki / Yoshiyuki Tomino, B2 Size (51 × 73 cm) C291
This is an original Japanese B2 theatrical poster for Triton of the Sea / 「海のトリトン」, the 1979 Japanese theatrical version of the celebrated anime work based on the manga by Osamu Tezuka.
This specific design is especially desirable because it features the film’s vivid oceanic key art: Triton standing heroically on the back of a great white dolphin, sword raised, red cape billowing behind him, against a brilliant blue sky and rolling sea. It is one of the most attractive and immediately recognizable poster images associated with this important 1970s anime property.
Film background
Triton of the Sea occupies an important place in the history of Japanese animation. The work sits at the intersection of three major creative figures: Osamu Tezuka, the foundational figure of modern manga and anime; Yoshinobu Nishizaki, later central to large-scale Japanese anime production culture; and Yoshiyuki Tomino, whose early work on Triton helped establish his reputation as a major animation director.
The 1979 theatrical version was released in colour through Office Academy at Toei-affiliated theatres. It was prepared as a theatrical re-edition of the television series, with the original manga world of Tezuka reshaped for cinema audiences. Although the theatrical version was reportedly prepared in two parts, only the first part was shown in theatres.
The bottom credit band identifies the film’s production lineage, including Yoshinobu Nishizaki in planning / production and Osamu Tezuka as original creator. The wider staff history of the work also connects it to Yoshiyuki Tomino, making this poster particularly relevant to collectors of early anime history and major creator-linked Japanese animation.
Poster design
This Japanese B2 poster is a beautiful example of late-1970s theatrical anime promotion. The composition is dominated by a wide marine landscape, with Triton poised on a white dolphin above the waves, creating a striking image of youth, myth, adventure, and movement.
The upper field is a rich expanse of blue sky, animated by seabirds and soft cloud forms. Below, the sea is rendered with strong painterly texture, giving the image depth and energy. Triton’s red cape provides the poster’s strongest colour accent, while the raised sword creates a clear heroic focal point.
At the bottom, the title 「海のトリトン」 is printed in large red Japanese lettering, giving the poster a powerful graphic base. The vertical Japanese copy at right frames the story as a journey of mystery, romance, love, peace, dreams, and adventure, while the left-side text positions the film as a beloved animated ocean romance returning to the screen.
The overall effect is both highly decorative and historically significant: classic anime adventure imagery, bold theatrical colour, and strong Japanese title design in the original cinema display format.
Condition
Very Good vintage condition. Please review the photograph carefully, as it shows the exact poster for sale.
This is an original 1979 Japanese theatrical B2 poster.
It is not a reproduction or a modern reprint.
It is over 45 years old.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
