The search for the lost posters

The first goal of the project was the recovery of works by the Italian Master Poster Painters. Many works were disappearing in dusty archives. Humidity and time were erasing colors and details.

Among the great “Painters of Cinema” we recall a few: Ballester, Martinati, Capitani, Brini, the Nistri brothers, Simeoni, Ciriello, Cesselon, and Sciotti. Renato Casaro stands out. He worked until 2025 and many consider him the greatest. These artists created a unique school of painting. They combined art and cinema in a perfect way.

SacWebphoto acquired the rights to as many as 32 of these painters. Through long research efforts and investments, it saved this heritage. Beyond artistic value, these posters tell the history of twentieth-century cinema and therefore the story of an entire century.

The first phase of the project involved the systematic search for posters, lobby cards and stills. The works were recovered from the SAC Archive and from many private collectors.

The search continues to bring all these works of art back to light.

Posters accessible to all

The second goal of the project is to make this artistic heritage accessible. To give everyone the chance to admire film posters that long ago decorated streets, squares, and cinemas throughout Italy.

For this purpose the website sacwebphoto.it was created, where all works can be easily browsed through many search keys.

This important digital archive already allows to create more complete exhibitions, enrich actor and director retrospectives with just a few clicks, or support cultural events.

Moreover anyone can choose a favorite poster and bring it home or to their office in the desired format. Each poster is a testament to the taste, style, and creativity of highly talented artists.

From restoration to printing

Each film poster is photographed professionally in high resolution to capture every detail, texture, and original color.

A basic restoration follows, during which only the most evident signs of aging are removed. After this first stage, the work is published online on sacwebphoto.it, where it can be viewed and ordered by anyone.

When a poster is requested, the final restoration begins. It is a patient process that can require many hours. The result is impressive, with vivid colors and sharp details that make the work shine again just as it was created.

The final print is produced in high definition on fine paper or artistic canvas. Colors, contrasts, and nuances are enhanced far beyond what was possible with the printing machines of the time, which printed on billboard paper. The result is a true art piece capable of sparking memories and satisfying any artistic preference.

It is a project that joins tradition and innovation, restoring value to the works of the past and giving them new life in the present.

Twentieth-century posters thus return to celebrate the art of the Italian Master Poster Painters.