Wallace Berman (American 1926-1976) signed Michael McClure's "The Beard", a poster for the 1968 Los Angeles premiere of the very controversial play at the Warren Playhouse, where the play migrated after the productions had been shut down in both New York and San Francisco for having a simulated oral sex scene. The cast of the L.A. production were arrested 14 nights in a row. In a letter to Stan Brakhage in September 1968, McClure complained, "I'll have to return to L.A. for the opening of the trial of Beard, which starts September 16." The poster was designed by Wallace Berman, publisher of *Semina* and considered by some as the "Father of Assemblage Art" Berman provided a photograph of his bare-breasted wife Shirley holding a worn pair of boots for the poster, poster signed "Ms Wallace B" on lower right, presumed to be the photographer's wife, 14 1/4" x 8 3/4".

While we make our best effort to note any issues on items either in writing or by photograph, absence of a formal condition report does not imply that a piece is perfect, free from defects, or the effects of aging. Please review the photos carefully and consider them part of the description of a lot prior to bidding. Any condition statement is a courtesy to our buyers and should be considered our opinion and not a statement of fact or free from human error. Requests for additional information can be made by email or phone, and will be responded to on a first come first served basis.