Blacula Photo Archive

Blacula Photo archive highlighting the cinematic work of William Marshall, one of the most commanding Black actors of the 20th century, through his performances in Blacula (1972) and Frederick Douglass, Slave and Statesma (1983). The archive consists of 8vintage original black-and-white silver gelatin press photographs, each measuring around 8" x 10". Six images showcase Marshall’s versatility, portraying both the tragic, aristocratic Prince Mamuwalde in Blacula and the abolitionist leader Frederick Douglass in a historical dramatization. Through these roles, Marshall brought both genre-defying complexity to Black representation in horror cinema and dignified historical gravitas to the screen at a time when Hollywood was still reckoning with its portrayal of African American figures. In the 6 Blacula still photographs, Marshall is depicted in various stages of his transformation from an African prince cursed into vampirism by Count Dracula. One image presents him in regal 18th-century dress, staring intensely, while another shows him in full vampire form, his dark cape spread wide in a menacing stance. Vonetta McGee, a key figure in 1970s Black cinema, is also featured in an arresting portrait, wearing elaborate African-inspired jewelry that underscores the film’s Afrofuturist aesthetic. Another still captures Marshall in a charged romantic moment with McGee’s character, Tina, a reincarnation of his lost love. As the first major Black vampire in Hollywood history, Marshall infused the role with Shakespearean gravitas, elevating Blacula beyond the standard Blaxploitation horror fare and positioning it as a landmark in both horror and Black film history. Also includes 2 photographs of Marshall’s as Frederick Douglass in Frederick Douglass, Slave and Statesman.. One press photo shows him delivering an impassioned speech in period costume, gesturing powerfully, while another captures a dramatic moment of confrontation, emphasizing Douglass’s intellectual force and commitment to abolitionism. These promotional photographs document his legacy as a trailblazer in Black film, bringing dignity, depth, and power to every role he inhabited.

Light creasing and minor edge wear to some photos, overall very good condition. A rare collection of promotional images celebrating William Marshall’s groundbreaking work in horror and historical cinema, marking him as a pivotal figure in 20th-century Black film history. (Inventory #: 21442)