What Becomes a Legend Most? Lillian Hellman Blackglama Poster

U.S.A., c. 1970

28 x 22 in (71 x 56 cm)

ID #FF10B-Blackglama-L-08

Original poster of writer Lillian Hellman for Blackglama mink coats. She looks wearily at the screen holding a lit cigarette, the picture of power.

Blackglama is a brand of dark mink coats known for their famous tagline and chic advertisements. The brand name comes from GLMA (Great Lakes Mink Association), the Midwestern ranchers producing these luxurious coats. GLMA hired a NYC ad agency to promote their product, coming up with the famous tagline "What becomes a legend most?" Capitalizing on celebrity culture and an aura of glamour, these portraits of well-known "legends" propelled the mink coats to international fame. The advertisements are simple in design—they mimic old Hollywood glamour shots, using dramatic lighting and a deep contrast between the star and their dark mink coat, making both truly stand out. This Blackglama series is some of the best advertising seen, the campaign lasting over two decades.

Artist: Bill King

Year: c. 1970

Condition: Excellent

Please note this poster can be linen-backed on canvas for an additional cost. Please contact postermuseum@gmail.com for more information.

100-250 advertisement black and white blackglama celebrity fashion feminist original photography playwright portrait poster size-28x22 vintage woman writer