LNER Poster #6 "Small Boy"

[Kevin Wilson-Smith]

Another of my all time favourates and one with an interesting story!

Painted in 1932 by A R Thompson this is one of the first examples of "comparitive" advertising.

The poster is a direct caracture of a Southern Railways Poster (and even includes a direct reference to Southern Railways!).

As part of the on-going PR wars between the two railways LNER decided to issue this poster, which poked fun at the Southern Railway's somewhat homely approach to advertising. LNER wanted, in contrast, to convey itself as more professional and powerful, which this poster in fact does very well - note the exaggerated size of the engine, but also note that the driver is still willing and able to talk to his admirer!

The poster however was not a public success - opinion was strongly in favour of the Southern Railway's poster. After a short run the LNER poster was dropped.

See here to directly compare this poster with the Southern Railways "Small Boy" Poster which it ripped off!

http://www.friendsoftherail.com/phpBB2/ ... =29&t=6681

P.S. - CLICK ONCE DIRECTLY ON THE POSTER BELOW SO YOU CAN VIEW IT IN FULL!

[Nathan Berelowitz]

I prefer the SR one, but , man, the artwork is fantastic. Watch this one for FOTR!