A feisty redhead is caught in a private moment in this voyeuristic and menacing published pulp painting that was used as the cover of Ecstasy Books #15 “Wanton By Night.” The image is filled with classic pulp iconography, from the scantily-clad femme fatale hurryingly drawing down her shade in the close confines of urban apartment living, to the whisky drinking man glancing through the window. In 1950s America there were a number of publishers that aimed to build on the 1930s pulp art tradition. With titles like Manhunt, Conflict, and Pursuit, digest-sized editions–typically with cover art like this –bridged the gap between the pulps and the 1960s men’s magazines that were to come later. While unsigned it has been confirmed that this cover illustration was painted by George Gross.
Wanton by Night
Artist: | George Gross | |
Date: | 1951 | |
Medium: | Oil on stretched canvas | |
Dimensions: | Sight Size 14" X 18" Framed 22" X 26 1/2" | |
Condition: | Excellent | |
Original Use: | Ecstasy Books Cover Art |
Wanton by Night
Artist: George Gross