Vintage large-format (10.5x13") photograph of Marlon Brando in the role of Julius Cesar, taken by noted entertainment photographer John Swope, that was featured on the front cover of the April 20, 1953, issue of Life magazine. This is one of the most famous portraits of Brando in character and dates from his early film career. According to our consignor, this photo originates directly from John Swope's estate and is believed to have hung on the wall of Swope's home. The photo has been mounted onto wood backing, which features Swope's credit stamp on the reverse. Also featured on the reverse are the handwritten pencil notations (presumably in Swope's hand) that read "Marlon Brando Julius Cesar."

John Swope was one of the most well-known photographers or his era. During the 1940s and 1950s he worked as a freelance photographer for Life magazine, specializing in photographs relating to both the theater and film. Swope was on the set of Julius Cesar for much of its production in 1953, where he captured numerous images of Brando in the title role, including the classic photo offered here. 

A wooden mount has been attached to the reverse so that the photo could be hung freely on a wall bracket. The crystal-clear photo displays light crazing and a few minor surface blemishes, none of which detract in the least from its overall Excellent appearance. Please note: while we have no doubts that this is a vintage 1950s photo, it has not been evaluated by PSA (as a matter of policy, PSA does not accept mounted photos for evaluation), therefore no guarantees are made regarding specific Type designations.