Tang Shan Da Xiong/ The Big Boss (1971), original artwork, first Italian release (1973)

Artist: Giuliano Nistri (dates unknown)

Unframed: 11 3/4 x 8 1/2 in. (29.8 x 21.6 cm)

Framed: 17 3/8 x 14 in. (44 x 36.7 cm)

Giuliano Nistri created this striking artwork, executed in gouache on artboard, for the film's first Italian release. It was used on the 79 x 55 in. and 55 x 39 in. posters.

Original artwork is exceptionally rare and highly prized by collectors.

This Hong Kong martial arts film stars Bruce Lee in his first major role. The cast also includes Maria Yi, James Tien, Tony Liu and Nora Miao. Although the story was originally written for James Tien, after a change in the film's Director, the leading role was given to Lee. The film received critical success and also did very well at the box office, and made Bruce Lee a star in Asia, followed by the rest of the world. The film tells the story of Cheng Chao-an (Bruce Lee), a young man from China, who moves to Thailand to live with his adopted family and work with his cousins at an ice factory. When they uncover by accident hidden drugs in one of the ice blocks, and some of his cousins start disappearing after meeting the management of the factory, Cheng is forced to break the promise that he made his mother never to get involved in any fighting.